Antique, Rare & Out of Print Books, Manuscripts and Newspapers.
1788. Gilmore, Rev. John. Storm Warriors or Life-Boat Work on The Goodwin Sands. London. 1885. 358p. Gilt embossed wraps. Relates the history and development of the life-boat for rescue at sea. Includes numerous accounts of rescues, methods of launching, carriages and equipping boats, distress signals, profiles of a few of the lifeboatmen, and much more. A valuable early reference and account on the subject. Nice gilt embossed boards, clean but edge worn. Contents toned, a bit brittle, some chipping. Rare, first I have ever had. (VG-). $66.
6249n. Crowninshield, Mary Bradford. ALL AMONG THE LIGHTHOUSES or THE CRUISE OF THE GOLDENROD. Boston . 1886. 392pp. Beautifully illustrated embossed covers. This is a story based on the operations of the U. S. Lighthouse Tender IRIS as she tended lights in the First LH District in the 1880’s. Excellent b/w illustrations as well as color USLH Establishment First District map with route indicated. Dedicated to the crew of the Tender Iris. Fine reading, should be included in every lighthouse library. Clean, tight, hinges unusually intact, bright clean covers. A very special book, difficult to find, especially in such nice condition. (VG+). $149.
22111. Jones, Tristan. HEART OF OAK. NY. 1984. 283 P. dj. In this noted account, Tristan Jones looks back to his years “below decks” in the British Royal Navy during World War II. The author is thrown among wartime recruits amid life on a destroyer and provides an authentic look at the life of the rates in the forecastle during wartime. Vivid exciting reading. (VG). $10.
2425g. Treasury Department. United States Public Health Service. THE SHIP’S MEDICINE CHEST AND FIRST AID AT SEA. Wash. 1929. 207p. Govt. green stiff wraps. 4TO. Prepared as a first aid handbook for use on all merchant vessels as well as all United States Lighthouse vessels and stations. This detailed text includes instructions for use of equipment and for the treatment of all forms of injury and illness. Likely this manual would be included in medicine chests issued in the Lighthouse Service from 1929 until 1939, as well as issued to all stations. Well illustrated. Contents clean and tight, good condition. Some vessel names written on frontis, cover stamped USED. Wraps light wear and bumping. This early manual used by the Lighthouse Service is extremely rare. (VG). $244.
6249m. Crowninshield, Mary Bradford. ALL AMONG THE LIGHTHOUSES or THE CRUISE OF THE GOLDENROD. Boston . 1886. 392pp. Beautifully illustrated covers. This is a story based on the operations of the U. S. Lighthouse Tender IRIS as she tended lights in the First LH District in the 1880’s. Excellent b/w illustrations as well as color USLHE First District map with route indicated. Dedicated to the crew of the Tender Iris. Fine reading, should be included in every lighthouse library. Clean, tight, hinges unusually intact, bright covers, only light soiling and bumping to corners, light edge wear to wraps. A very special book, difficult to find, especially in such nice condition. (VG+). $149.
9421d. Gowdy, Jim & Kim Ruth. GUIDING LIGHTS OF THE DELAWARE RIVER AND BAY. Sweetwater, NJ., 1999. 296p. Soft wraps. Signed by both authors. This is the most comprehensive history ever written on the lighthouses, lightships, tenders and depots of the Delaware River and Bay – from Cape May to Gloucester City and Philadelphia to Fenwick Island . This detailed history was painstakingly research by the authors and is enhanced by more than 180 photographs and 25 illustrations. Using records from the National Archives, Coast Guard, and private collections this monumental work provides wonderful reading. The vintage photographs alone are a feast to the eye and offer previously unseen views of many of these interesting stations. Includes are views of a number these lights under construction, and some in the process of destruction. Also includes rare views of tenders, keepers, light vessels and much more. One of the best on the subject. Only very lightly read. (VG+). $74.
Set 5 First Day of Issue cover cancellations $15
Booklet of 20 stamped Postal Cards using each design $6.
8432c. Wetherill, Fred V., BOYS AND BUOYS. Philadelphia . 1928. 151p. DJ. Exceptionally rare, this youths book described the work of the Lighthouse Service for boys. Chapters include lighthouses including Tilamook Rock, and a great deal on the work of a Lighthouse Tender as the boys observe the work of the crew. Dedicated by the author to the employees of the United States Lighthouse Service for their quiet heroism and sacrifice. Nicely embossed covers and in a rare complete dust jacket. (VG). $68.
12487. na. PRESERVING HISTORIC LIGHTHOUSES – An Annotated Bibliography. National Park Service. Compiled by Camille M. Martone, Lauren McCrosky, Sharon C. Park. illus., 40 pp., 1989. Soft wraps. Lengthy bibliography prepared to assist owners, architects and administration officials with the planning and implementation of preservation work on lighthouses. Includes case studies, official documents, as well as books and publications both recent and early, Includes too annotations describing the contents of each publication and its applicability. Also appended is a copy of Light House Board, Specifications for a First Order Lighthouse (Brick Tower) October 1861, and Light House Board, Specifications for Materials and Labor for Construction of an Iron Pile Lighthouse for Lake Superior 1860. Valuable resource. (VG+). $44.
12488. na. Among the Breakers – A Drama in Two Acts. George M. Baker & Co. Boston. 1876. 65p. Soft wraps. Script for two act play revolves around David Murray, Keeper of Fairpoint Lighthouse and his Assistant Larry David. Much of the play takes place in the keeper’s house during a fierce storm. With references to a murder and survivors from a wreck, looks like an interesting early play. Clean, tight, in worn wraps. (VG). $24.
22231. Holland , F. Ross. AMERICA’S LIGHTHOUSES – An Illustrated History. Dover Pub. 2nd. 1988. 226p. Soft wraps. 8VO. Filled with 100 historic vintage photographs, line illustrations and 8 maps, America’s Lighthouses is one of the best references on the history of the light stations in America in recent memory. Mr. Holland guides you through the history and development of lighthouses in America with fascinating stories of the history and development of individual lighthouses, and a nostalgic look at the keepers who have devoted their lives to the daily maintenance and operation of the lights. Another wonderful and valuable lighthouse addition by this well known historian. (M). $12.95. Reduced $9.
6130. Tracy, Louis. THE PILLAR OF LIGHT. Norwood , MA . 1904. 339pp. 2nd. printing. Moderate wear, only light soiling to pages, few pages loose, covers well worn. Good reading copy. (G-). $14. (similar in better condition shown)
21296. Grant, John and Ray Jones. LEGENDARY LIGHTHOUSES – Volume II. 2001. 208p. 125 color photographs. Soft wraps. Like its companion book published in 1998, Legendary Lighthouses is filled with stunning photographs of light stations from Galveston to Lake Ontario , and from Honolulu to the Aleutian Islands . In addition are included interviews with former lighthouse keepers, children of keepers, authors and historians and more. Includes numerous stories of heroism, daring rescues deadly storms and the ever fascinating history of these interesting stations. (M). Published at $24.95. SALE. $15.95.
11189. (catalogue) Perko Ship and Boat Equipment. 1981. 200p. Soft wraps. Completely illustrated catalogue includes all manner of boat and ship supplies including Fresnel lenses for lamps and lanterns, navigational lights, lighting fixtures, electric lamps, switches, searchlights, vents, portlights, steering equipment, deck hardware, lead lines, fishing equipment and much more. Great for reference. (VG+). $12.
6174d. Binns, Archie. LIGHTSHIP. New York . 1934. 2nd. ed. 345pp. A literary sensation of its time, Lightship was published simultaneously in London and in the United States . More recently, pages have been discovered and newly bound and offered for sale. These are the original copies and binding, not newly bound. Interesting fictional story of the small but interesting world bound by the hull of a Pacific Coast light-ship. A close look at their work and their relationships. Contents clean, tight, slight browning from age, ex. lib. with typical markings, covers some soil and marking. (G). $22.
6597r. Witney, Dudley. THE LIGHTHOUSE. Toronto. 1975. 1st. 256p. DJ. 8VO. The author’s enjoyable and informative text compliments over a hundred beautiful color and b/w photographs, early architectural plans and illustrations outlining the history and architectural significance of lighthouses. Includes many quite beautiful photographs of lamps, lens and early lighting apparatus. Certainly one of the nicer of the more recent publishing endeavors, unusually difficult to find. Clean, tight. (F). $68.
11307. U.S. Coast Guard. Regulations for the Security of Vessels in Port. Wash. January 1943. 40p. Soft wraps. Interesting regulations for posting guards, watches, prevention of sabotage, manning of vessels, equipment, identification and passes, blackout regulations, handling cargo, inspections, and more. Clean, tight. (VG+). $8.
8475b. Coast Guard. THE SIGNIFICANCE OF AIDS TO NAVIGATION. GPO. 1943. 33p. Soft wraps. This interesting pamphlet describes all aspects of lighthouses, range lights, buoys and light-vessels including descriptions, styles, color designations, light characteristics, sectors, fog signals, power plants, radio aids, symbols and more. With color and b/w illustrations. Interesting. (VG+). $8.
11188. na. Coast Guard. Lighthouses: Then and Now. Wash. U. S. Coast Guard. 1987. 18p. Soft wraps. Published on the 200th anniversary of the creation of the Lighthouse Service, this publication discusses the evolution of U.S. lighthouses over the years, the current state of our lighthouses, the last of the lighthouse keepers, lighthouse automation, and more. Well illustrated. Filled with interesting accounts. Clean, tight. (VG+). $12.
11189. (catalogue) Perko Ship and Boat Equipment. 1981. 200p. Soft wraps. Completely illustrated catalogue includes all manner of boat and ship supplies including Fresnel lenses for lamps and lanterns, navigational lights, lighting fixtures, electric lamps, switches, searchlights, vents, portlights, steering equipment, deck hardware, lead lines, fishing equipment and much more. Great for reference. (VG+). $12.
11184. (copy) League of Coast Guard Women. Life Saving Stations of the Fourth Coast Guard District. Year Book 1935. 137p. Photocopy of rare 1935 publication details each station in the district with photo, list of officer in charge and crew, accounts of rescues, boats, account of the wreck of the ship Circassian, and more. Extremely rare accounts. (Spiral bound photocopy $14.95).
1166. United States Light House Establishment. “Price List of Standard Articles (for Lighthouse Purposes) Furnished from General Depot, Thompkinsville, New York. 1901”. Washington. GPO. 83p. We have known of the existence of this document but until now have been unable to find it. It includes listings and descriptions of items available from the General Lighthouse Depot in Staten Island, for use by keepers at light stations, depots, for use on light vessels and tenders, and more. Included are 18 text pages, 44 full page photo plates and 21 fold-out plates of implements and equipment. Prices are included for budgeting purposes when requesting such items from the General Depot (keepers Service basket $5, First Order Revolving Lens $6,328, etc). Plates include steam whistles, automatic sirens, electric buoy lantern, engines to power fog signals, fog signal house, Daboll trumpet, bell striking apparatus, air pressure lamps, 4th, 5th, 6th order lamps, lightship and tender lamps, table lamp, locomotive headlight lantern, lens lantern, light vessel lanterns, post lantern, revolving clock mechanisms, revolving lenses, keeper’s service basket, oil carrier, dustpan, drip pan, oil feeder, oil measure, and more. A “must” for museums, collectors, writers and researchers on the subject and anyone interested in the apparatus used by the Lighthouse Service. Spiral bound, photo-reproduced copy. (M). $86.
Ask about Tom’s other works on the subject.
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE OPERATIONS OF THE UNITED STATES LIFE-SAVING SERVICE
We have just acquired two large collections of these rare Annual Reports of the Life-Saving Service and, in an effort to stem the rise of prices over the last few years on these reports, have endeavored to offer them at as low a price as possible. This is the perfect opportunity to begin your collection or to fill those missing years in your present collection. Reports are printed by the Government Printing Office [GPO] and range from 180 to 600 pages. Includes extensive details of operations and of rescues throughout the year. Also details personnel, construction and repairs of stations and equipment, evaluation of new equipment and much more. In addition, many include appended reports such as the new Beebe-McLellan Life-Boat, Dobbins’s surf life-boat, launching wagon, improved breeches buoy traveler block, McLellan’s Tally-Boards, and lengthy report on tests performed on Hunt and Lyle guns on Nantucket Island in 1887, reports on Cunningham rockets, surfboats and more. Quite detailed, becoming exceptionally difficult to find. Typical cloth government binding, contents overall clean, expected uniform very light browning on some copies, hinges tight and intact, covers may have some wear. Years available include: 1880 (short), 1884, 1888, 1889, 1901, 1904, 1907, (CG) 1916. (please inquire)
999. [Coast Guard] U. S. COAST GUARD MAGAZINE Publication of the U. S. Coast Guard. c.1935-38. Filled with informative notes and articles about the men and stations in all of the districts, including life at some of these remote stations and more. Includes some particularly good notes on the duty, beach patrol, rescues, sinking and damage, notes of the districts and more. Illustrated with hundreds of photographs and wartime cartoons. Staple bound, soft wraps, 46 – 80 pages. Have many issues dating from January 1935 to October 1938 [not inclusive]. (VG). Have 30+ issues dating from 1946 to June 1957 [not inclusive]. (VG). @ $8 each.
26212. Tag, Thomas A. CHURCH STEEPLES AND FOG SIGNALS. Dayton. 2006. 20p. Spiral bound. Thomas Tag has long been probably the only authority on lamps, lens apparatus and illumination for lighthouses, with his articles on the subject appearing in our catalogue, as well as the U. S. Lighthouse Society’s Keeper’s Log, Lighthouse Digest and other publications. Now Tom has added still another volume to his list of publications – Church Steeples and Fog Signals. This detailed account covers a long neglected area of lighthouse equipment – the mechanical weight-driven fog bell strikers. The author covers a history of fog bells, bell construction, wave actuated bells and clockwork-striking machinery. Included are Lowell Fog Bell Strikers, Custer Strikers, Daboll Strikers, Stevens, Gamewell, and more. Thoroughly illustrated with early photographs and drawings, this booklet makes most interesting reading. (M). #26212 $26.
792h. O’Brien, T. Michael. GUARDIANS OF THE EIGHTH SEA – A HISTORY OF THE U. S. COAST GUARD ON THE GREAT LAKES . GPO. 1976. 97p. Soft wraps. 4TO. This scarce historical narrative traces the vital services performed, beginning with the Revenue Cutter Service up to the present day Coast Guard. Included are the roles of the Lighthouse and Life-Saving Services, and Steamboat Inspection Service. Well illustrated with over 90 photographs, the author presents a comprehensive history of the rescue services in this important area. (VG). $22.
11133. na. Signals of the Sea and Heroes of the Surf. Vistabooks. 1996. 24p. Soft wraps. Well done reprint of two wonderful early articles on the Lighthouse Service and Life Saving Service in the United States include: Hewitt, Arthur. SIGNALS OF THE SEA. [The Outlook. November 1904] Wonderful 14 page article tells of the author’s trip aboard the U. S. Lighthouse Service Tender Larkspur in the Second Light House District. Along the way the author interviews officers and members of the crew and various keepers of the lights. Includes 15 most interesting and unusual photographs of lamps and apparatus, lights and vessels including one of the keeper of Minot ’s Ledge Light looking up through the lens. Most interesting with rare information. Spears, John R., HEROES OF THE SURF. [from Outlook Magazine, 1903.] 7p. Detailed history of the life-saving services in the United States, beginning in 1786 with the Massachusetts Humane Society. The author carries the discussion through the early lifeboats placed on Rockaway Beach on Long Island and government efforts there, to more established services added in the 1870’s and finally to the present [1903] day. Includes four illustrations. (VG+). $8.
1188. Robinson, William F. Coastal New England- Its Life and Past. Wellfleet Press. 1989. 222p. DJ. 100 B&W and 20 color ill. The one book for all those who love New England and the sea – A richly illustrated, comprehensive history of those who have lived here under the ocean’s sway, in this region “peopled with witch-hanging Puritans, broad-shouldered whalemen, dignified sea captains, and recalcitrant Down Easters.” Filled with information, accounts of coastal life, prints, maps and more. Excellent notes and bibliography. (VG+). $16.
20337. Gaykowski Kozma, LuAnne. LIVING AT A LIGHTHOUSE – Oral Histories from the Great Lakes . GLLKA. 1987. 103p. Soft Wraps. Stories of daily life and work, of family members and traditions, and events both common and unusual. Lighthouse keeping was more than a job, it was a way of life. The complete record cannot be found in the official records and in government reports. These memories, first hand accounts and family stories complete the picture. Wonderful reading. (F-). $12.
1199. Moore, N. Hudson. The Old Clock Book. Tudor Publishing Company, New York, 1937. Second Printing of New Edition (1936). xi, 339pp, 104 photo illustrations. Includes list of English and Continental Clockmakers, list of American Clockmakers, detailed looks at all types of American and English clocks. Includes Terry, Seth Thomas, Chauncey Jerome, Willard, and many more. Brown cloth gilt, rubbing at extremities, otherwise clean, tight and very good. The review indicates that the list of 4598 names of European and American clockmakers was at the time the most complete ever made. (VG-). $8.
BR-95. [journal] THE KEEPER’S LOG. Journal of the United States Lighthouse Society. San Francisco. Var. Fill out your collection with these back issues of The Keeper’s Log. This is the premier journal for the lighthouse researcher or enthusiast, filled with hundreds of detailed articles on lighthouses, lightships and tenders across the country. Filled with remarkable original photographs. Most interesting reading. Here is a great opportunity to add some of the earlier issues to your collection at an exceptionally low price of $3.50 each, four for $12. Issues from 1985 (Vol 2) to 2008 available. Excellent condition – good historical information. 1988 Issue #3, 1996 Issue1,2, 1997 Issue 2,4, 1999 Issue 3.
11108. Willard, John Ware. Simon Willard and his Clocks. (Formerly titled A History of Simon Willard Inventor and Clockmaker Together With Some Account of His Sons–His Apprentices–And the Workmen Associated With Him, with brief notices of other clockmakers of the family name). Dover. 1968. 133p. Soft wraps. Unabridged republication of the original 1911 edition. The inventor who established America’s first clock factory and developed clock-making techniques that are still in use more than 200 years later, Willard was a master among craftsmen. This unique biography, written by his great-grandson, not only chronicles the inventor’s life, it explains his methods and catalogs his creations. Well illustrated. (VG). $12.
11107. na. Sea Yarns : Being the Reminiscences of Capt. Joshua N. Taylor. Orleans Historical Society. 1981. From the original published in 1915. 47p. Soft wraps. From the author: “These little ‘SEA YARNS’ are true stories from chapters in my own life, given to my readers as little experiences of a sailor of the old school”. The old-time ‘Yankee” skipper was an important factor in placing the American Flag in every known port of the world and in proving the commercial superiority of its men and ships. Those times are now long past, and remain in our minds as remembrances only, of a day when American ships and American men were supreme in the maritime world. Great reading of wrecks, trips around the globe and life at sea. (M). $3.
28346. Boddington, Jack. A CONQUERED SEA – An Illustrated Record of the United States Presidential Lifesaving Medal and Related Awards. Self published. 1990. 90p. Soft wraps. Scarce reference lists Presidential Lifesaving Medals and associated awards from 1853 up to 1939, as well as registers of recipients where available, images of the medals, and more. Very good reference work on the subject with good detail and information. Recipients’ listing includes date, the award, the name of the recipient, their rank, nationality, their ship and what US ship they saved as well as information on the award itself. Clean, tight, very nice copy of a rare publication. (VG+). $64.
BR-116. Wolf, Virginia. To The Lighthouse. San Diego. Harcourt Brace Jovanovich Modern Classic. 1990. 236p. DJ. To the Lighthouse was first published in 1927. A landmark novel of high modernism, the text centers on the Ramsay family and their visits to the lighthouse on the Isle of Skye in Scotland between 1910 and 1920, and their vacations on the island. (M). $6.
793d. Bennett, Robert F. SURFBOATS, ROCKETS, AND CARRONADES. GPO. 1976. 98p. Stiff wraps. Inscribed by the author. Written before the resurgence of interest in the origins of the Life-Saving Service, Surfboats, Rockets, And Carronades traces the little known origins, successes and failures of the earliest federal efforts in lifesaving along the coasts. During the years from 1848 through 1870 volunteer efforts of private citizens saved countless thousands of lives from shipwreck. To help them, they had only native experience, abundant courage, and some token federal assistance in the form of … SURFBOATS, ROCKETS, AND CARRONADES. This is the story of these first rescue stations and of the later establishment of the Life-Saving Service. Extremely difficult to find. Contents clean, tight, light soiling to wraps, light foxing to end papers. (VG). $88.
26119. Nalty, Bernard C., Dennis L. Noble, and Truman R. Strobridge. WRECKS, RESCUES & INVESTIGATIONS. Wilmington. 1978. 473 p. Blue cloth covered boards lettered in silver. Beginning during the first decade of the nineteenth century, this thoroughly researched text presents a history of the U.S. Life Saving Service and early Coast Guard using a variety of early official reports, documents and writings. With an emphasis on the “…humanitarian efforts, principally the rescue of shipwreck victims, and the promotion of maritime safety…” , the authors present a great detail of information and insights into a number of areas of importance including the origin and development of the service, the use and effectiveness of the Coston light, the improvements and operation of line throwing devices, use of the metallic lifecar, the use and effectiveness of the breeches buoy, lifeboats and their crews, improvements in lifesaving appliances, lifesaving actions during early combat action, rescue on ocean stations, rescue from the air, accidents and their investigation, and much more. Included to illustrate topics covered are numerous accounts of early and more recent wrecks and rescues. A must have information resource and reference. Near fine, rarely if ever opened. (F-). $175.
29367. Spears, J. R. and C. H. Claudy. The Life Saving Service and Lighthouses. Bay View Magazine. January 1908. pp. 223- 227. Quite a nice article describes the history of the life-savers and the work that they perform across the country. Also includes a account of the extent and operation of the United States Lighthouse Service, with a bit about its history, with a number of examples of light stations and more. Full issue with wonderful articles of the day. Wraps present but detached, light edge wear and foxing to wraps. (VG-). $22.
SR-422. Chase, Mary Ellen. THE STORY OF LIGHTHOUSES. New York . 1965. 1st ed. 169pp. DJ. Combining her talents as both scholar and storyteller, the author chronicles the history of lighthouses throughout the world with an emphasis on the tedious construction and the life of the keepers and their families. (VG) $12.
SR-421. [journal] THE KEEPER’S LOG. Journal of the United States Lighthouse Society. San Francisco . Var. Fill out your collection with these back issues of The Keeper’s Log. This is the premier journal for the lighthouse researcher or enthusiast, filled with hundreds of detailed articles on lighthouses, lightships and tenders across the country. Filled with remarkable original photographs. Most interesting reading. Here is a great opportunity to add some of the earlier issues to your collection at an exceptionally low price of $3.50 each, four for $12. Some issues from 1993 to 1995 available. Excellent condition – good historical information. 1993 Vol. 1,2. 1994 3,4,1. 1995 2,3,4
1042b. The Sea Chest – Journal of The Puget Sound Maritime Historical Society. March 2005. 47p. Wonderful historical articles of the Pacific coast include: Melanope, Witch of the Waves; Southern Chief, A Reminder of Jefferson County’s Maritime Past; Sail Training in the Pacific Northwest, and more. (VG+). $9
21412. Rourke, Juanita. UP THE SHORE: THE LIGHTHOUSE YEARS. Toronto. 2000. 264p. Soft wraps. Autographed by the author. Edited by Bonnie Rourke. Enter into the intriguing world of lightkeeping on the Great Lakes with this detailed account of a lightkeeper’s wife. Originally written as a weekly newspaper column, these true stories reflect the life that Juanita and Frank Rourke and their family shared at various lighthouses on Georgian Bay and Lake Huron between the years 1956-68, when Frank was the keeper there. These tales offer a fascinating account of the experiences of a family living this rugged life far from the comforts of community and friends. Wonderful day-to-day details that will appeal to all who have succumbed to the lure of lighthouse history. Well illustrated with vintage photographs. (VG). $28.95.
1042c. The Sea Chest – Journal of The Puget Sound Maritime Historical Society. June 2005. 47p. Wonderful historical articles of the Pacific coast include: The Wreck of SS Saratoga; The Liberty Ship George Walton; Loss of Seagate on the Washington Coast, Haida Revisited, and more. (VG+). $9
L-185. Nordhoff, Charles and James Norman Hall. Botany Bay. Boston. 1941. Tenth printing. 374p. Following their Bounty trilogy ( The Mutiny on the Bounty, Men Against the Sea, Pitcairn’s Island), these renown authors penned this excellent take, one you can’t put down and and was later made into a feature film (1951). A good look at how life was in the penal colonies of Australia in the 1780’s and 90’s. (VG). $12.
BR-110. ed. Townsend, Robert B. Tales from the Great Lakes. Toronto. 1995. 203p. Soft wraps. For more than two hundred years, thousands of giant sailing ships traversed the Great Lakes carrying cargo and passengers. The memory of the romance and elegance of these beautiful ships has almost been forgotten in the search for greater efficiency and speed in our modern world. C.H.J. Snider (1879-1971) chronicled this era in his 1,303 “Schooner Days” columns for Toronto’s The Evening Telegram between 1931 and 1954. A great marine researcher and artist, Snider himself worked aboard schooners in his youth and studied first-hand the development of the Great Lakes region. Included herein are selected articles written for Toronto’s The evening telegram from 1931-1954. Coupled with Snider’s writings are those of Robert B. Townsend, who, besides introducing Snider’s stories, adds some of his own. (VG). $7.
BR-101. Stonehouse, Frederick. GREAT LAKES LIGHTHOUSE TALES. Gwinn , Michigan . 1998. 192p. Soft wraps. Lighthouse Tales, by one of the most respected authors on the subject, tells the exciting story of the human side of lightkeeping. It describes the deadly storms, killing fogs and numbing loneliness that those who “kept the lights” endured. Stories of wreck and rescue thread their way through this tribute to the “wickies” of a bygone era. Thoroughly illustrated with vintage photographs. (M). $7
28183. Tag, Thomas A. The Clock Without Hands. Chicago. 2008. 17p. Spiral bound. Thomas Tag has long been probably the only authority on lamps, lens apparatus and illumination for lighthouses, with his articles on the subject appearing in our catalogue, as well as the U. S. Lighthouse Society’s Keeper’s Log, Lighthouse Digest and other publications. Now Tom has added still another volume to his list of publications – The Clock Without Hands. This detailed account covers a long neglected area of lighthouse equipment – the mechanical weight-driven mechanisms that rotate the lenses causing the flash that we see. The author covers a history and design of these mechanisms, chariot wheel systems, mercury flotation systems, clockwork mechanisms, and much more. Thoroughly illustrated with early photographs and drawings, this booklet makes most interesting reading. (M). $26. (Additional titles available – please ask for list.)
BR-89. Adamson, Hans Christian. KEEPERS OF THE LIGHTS. New York . 1955. 430pp. Illustrated with photos, provides a compelling history of the lighthouses and light vessels of the United States . Well done, interesting and complete. Ex-Library. Spine with some wear, contents clean and tight. (VG-). $22.
BR-91. Kozma, LuAnne Gaykowski. LIVING AT A LIGHTHOUSE – Oral Histories from the Great Lakes . GLLKA. 1987. 103p. Soft Wraps. Stories of daily life and work, of family members and traditions, and events both common and unusual. Lighthouse keeping was more than a job, it was a way of life. The complete record cannot be found in the official records and in government reports. These memories, first hand accounts and family stories complete the picture. Wonderful reading. (F-). $18.
21126. South Bend Replicas, Inc., CATALOGUE OF ANTIQUE/REPLICA ORDNANCE. South Bend , Indiana . 2004-2005. 130p. Soft wraps. South Bend Replicas are the manufacturers of solid-cast machine-bored cannon for display and actual firing. Included among their inventory are 1878 style Lyle gun barrels used by museums around the country to demonstrate the breeches buoy drill of former life-savers. J. Paul Barnett, owner of the company, is one of the foremost experts on the subject of cannon and particularly those developed by David Lyle. Their catalogue provides thousands of photographs and extensive text describing all manor of cannon, present day construction processes to provide authentic reproductions, and much about safety in the present day demonstrations of these pieces. Interesting reading as well as a great reference. (M). $10.
4675L. U. S. Coast Guard. HISTORICALLY FAMOUS LIGHTHOUSES. CG-232. 1972. Soft Wraps. 88 pp. Photos and historically oriented descriptions of 55 well known U.S. lighthouses and lightships. Contents clean, tight, nice copy. (VG+) $14.
313g. [reprint] “THE LIGHTHOUSES OF THE UNITED STATES”, by Charles Nordhoff, March 1874 “LIFE IN A LIGHTHOUSE, LIFE ON THE SOUTH SHOAL LIGHTSHIP, and HEROISM IN THE LIGHTHOUSE SERVICE” by Gustav Kobbe. 1981 reprint. 64p. With over 65 excellent engraving reproductions and descriptions of U.S. Lights and light vessels, the authors here present four articles on the romantic history of the Service, originally printed during its heyday in the 1870 – 90’s. Provides a wonderful period overview of the history and operation of the Service. Excellent reading. (VG+). $10.
28411. na. Automatic Lighthouses. c.1940. Two page article discusses sensors in use in many lighthouses that alert the keeper if the IOV light is burning too high or low, and will automatically extinguish the light at sunrise. These sensors aid the keeper so that he does not have to stand regular watches. Includes one photo illustration of Kuhio Bay Range Light. Disbound. (VG). $10.
28412. na. How a Lighthouse is Built. A Child’s Book of Familiar Things. c.1912. 6p. Nicely illustrated article for young people discusses how a lighthouse is built at sea with waves lashing over the site. Includes good photos of the construction of the Beachy Head lighthouse using the “railway in the air”. Includes 8 photo illustrations. Disbound. (VG). $14.
BR-85. Noble, Dennis L. THAT OTHERS MIGHT LIVE – The U. S. Life-Saving Service 1878-1915. Annapolis , MD. 1994. 177p. DJ. One of the first full-length accounts of the operational history, this detailed and interesting work has been somewhat overlooked in the recent upsurge of interest on the subject. Filled with numerous early photographs and diagrams, the author sheds light on many of the daily duties, rescues and little out-of-the-way stations that time has forgotten. In a clear and precise style, he describes how rescue efforts were conducted including the gripping story of the schooners George Taulane and J. H. Hartzell, and many more. A well done, most interesting work. Clean, bright. (F-). $21.
25374. Rand, Edward A., FIGHTING THE SEA or WINTER AT THE LIFE-SAVING STATION. New York . 1887. 344p. After visiting a Life-Saving Station and examining various reports, the author became impressed with the work of the hardy crews. Herein the author presents a tale “…for young people of the brave men who watch the sea while we are sleeping, and whose generous daring may well provoke us to courage and self-sacrifice in other spheres.” An interesting tale of the crews, their lives and personalities. Being quite rare, this is a most desirable title. Contents tight, though some light soil & age toning. Covers nicely embossed, corners and edges bumped, moderate soil. (VG-). $84.
24131b. Secretary of the Navy. Hydrographic Office. No. 87. THE 1931 INTERNATIONAL CODE OF SIGNALS. American Edition. Volume I. For Visual and Sound Signaling. Wash. Reprinted 1943. 362 p. Black cloth printed boards. The International Code of Signals was first drafted in 1855 by the British Board of Trade and subsequently published in 1857 as a means of maritime communications. The original publication showed 17,000 signals using 18 flags, part of which was specific to the United Kingdom and another part that contained universal signals to be used by all nations. Adopted by most sea-faring nations, the system was revised in 1932 to include seven languages: English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Spanish, and Norwegian. Detailed text includes thousands of signals, as well as color plates of signal flags and flags of maritime nations. Includes alphabetical spelling table, urgent signals, phrases, general vocabulary, semaphore, and more. Also includes a complete list of US Coast Guard stations with location and latitude and longitude, and Coast Guard Instructions to Mariners in Case of Shipwreck. Contents clean, tight, some overall wear. (VG-). $48.
24131c. Secretary of the Navy. Hydrographic Office. No. 88. THE 1931 INTERNATIONAL CODE OF SIGNALS. American Edition. Volume II. For Radio Signaling. Wash. 1933. 418 p. Black cloth printed boards. The International Code of Signals was first drafted in 1855 by the British Board of Trade and subsequently published in 1857 as a means of maritime communications. The original publication showed 17,000 signals using 18 flags, part of which was specific to the United Kingdom and another part that contained universal signals to be used by all nations. Adopted by most sea-faring nations, the system was revised in 1932 to include seven languages: English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Spanish, and Norwegian. Detailed text includes thousands of signals for use in radio communication. Includes alphabetical spelling table, urgent signals, phrases, general vocabulary, and more. Contents clean, tight, only light overall wear. (VG+). $48.
9171. [full page plate] Lighthouses. c. 1890. From early encyclopedia. this handsome one page lithograph plate shows 12 beautiful detailed full and sectional views of lighthouses, their construction features, lens and lantern apparatus. This extremely detailed view is a beautiful item for framing, measuring 8” by 10” and clean, crisp, as new. (F). $78. Image on request.
24155. Who Invented the Fresnel Lens? Thomas Tag has long been probably the only authority on lamps, lens apparatus and illumination for lighthouses, with his articles on the subject appearing in our catalogue, as well as the U. S. Lighthouse Society’s Keeper’s Log, Lighthouse Digest and other publications. Now Tom has added still another volume to his list of publications – Who Invented the Fresnel Lens. From 1822 , when Fresnel published his first paper Memoire sur un Nouveau Systeme d’Eclairage des Phares, Sir David Brewster, in Scotland , claimed that he was the true inventor. This account discusses the various claims and should settle the dispute. 15 p. Spiral bound. $26.
BR-66. na. U. S. LIGHTHOUSE SERVICE. Fortune Magazine January 1937. Pp. 61-69, 126-132. Lengthy, large folio illustrated article details the men and equipment of today’s Lighthouse Service. Wonderfully illustrated with photographs, paintings and diagrams including a large full page diagram of the Nantucket LV No. 112 illustrating its construction, equipment and operation. Other photos include quartermaster at the wheel of the Lighthouse Tender Spruce, lens apparatus, buoys and more. Most interesting and detailed article, excellent images. Disbound, staining to some corners. Worth it for the lightship illustration alone. (VG-). $34.
25352. na. CHAINS, ANCHORS AND MOORING GEAR. HANDBOOK CONTAINING SKETCHES AND USEFUL TABLES. Henry Wood & Co., Ltd., Dee Iron Works, Saltney, Near Chester, England [Established in 1780] c. 1907. Gilt embossed hard cover. Maritime ship’s chandlery catalogue includes lightship chain, buoy chain, anchors, mooring gear, cables, grapnel irons, shackles, hawsers and more. Also includes tables of measures and more. With 80 illustrations (pages 38-84) plus two multi-folding tables, and laid in broadside for Wood’s Patent “Viking” Stock Anchor. Excellent reference, clean and tight. (VG). $148.
7393d,e. Noble, Dennis L. A LEGACY – The United States Life-Saving Service. USCG Bicentennial Publication. Wash. c.1987. 27pp. Soft Wraps. Tremendous overview of the life and work of the members of the U. S. Life-Saving Service. Well illustrated with 26 wonderful large format photographs. Also with a complete listing of Coast Guard small boat rescue stations. A most interesting pamphlet. Clean, tight. (VG). $16.
9434d,g,h,j. Bachand, Robert G., NORTHEAST LIGHTS, LIGHTHOUSES AND LIGHTSHIPS – RHODE ISLAND TO CAPE MAY, NEW JERSEY. Norwalk , Ct. 1989. 422 pp. Impressive reference work covers 133 light stations that existed Includes all manor if information from construction information, major alterations and characteristics of the lights that existed there, to information about the keepers work there. A most excellent reference for this area, extremely difficult to find now. As new. (M). $52.
20369b. Lucas, Kenneth W. Sr., FEDERAL LAW ENFORCEMENT BADGES. 1991. 392p. 8VO. Badges have long been of interest to collectors but before this book, there has been little information to enable collectors to learn the history and designs of these attractive and most desirable insignia. Included are thousands of photographs of individual badge designs arranged by department, with a description of the history and work of each department. Though the author does not include specifics on each design evolution, by going through the many designs shown, including views of the back and clasps, you can begin to piece together a time line to date and authenticate many shields in your collection. Includes complete views and listings of badges issued by the Departments of Agriculture, Commerce [including one badge of the Lighthouse Service], Defense, Energy, Health, Justice, Labor, State, Transportation, Treasury, and over 50 other agencies. Most interesting and a worthwhile reference. (M). $128 net.
2217. Department of Commerce. Lighthouse Service. INSTRUCTIONS TO LIGHT KEEPERS. Wash. GPO. 1911. 26 p. Nicely done reprint. Includes general instructions for all employees, instructions for Light-Keepers, instructions to all stations and vessels equipped with fog signals, instructions relating to light vessels, and much more. Includes all aspects of station and apparatus maintenance. A complete and important document. $9.95.
24394. Krebs, Laurie. A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A COLONIAL LIGHTHOUSE KEEPER. New York . 2004. 24 p. New from PowerKids Press, this charming addition to their Day in the Life series looks at Boston Light in Colonial times. From the harbor and lighthouse design, to the keeper’s daily duties, changing weather, firing the fog signal cannon, polishing the brass, rescues and more. A wonderful addition to your children’s library. (M). $18.95.
24241. Clarke, A. C. VOICE ACROSS THE SEA. New York . 1974. 228 p. DJ. An account of submarine telegraph and telephone lines and the laying of the first transatlantic cable over 125 years ago. A complete account of this adventure. (VG+). $16.
6719d. Manning, Gordon P., LIFE IN THE COLCHESTER REEF LIGHTHOUSE. by The Shelburne Museum . 1958. 43p. Soft wraps, clean, crisp. Nicely illustrated. Details the life of the Keepers in this Lake Champlain lighthouse. Includes listing of the keepers who served here during its’ 62 years of service, as well as details on the 1952 move of the lighthouse to the Shelburne Museum in Vermont . (G+). $22.
CLEARANCE PRICED at Only $7.95 each:
NORTHERN LIGHTHOUSES. New Brunswick to the Jersey Shore . 1990. 127p. (1)
772. NEW ENGLAND LIGHTHOUSES. Bay of Fundy to Long Island Sound. 1996. 101p. (3)
8227. MID-ATLANTIC LIGHTHOUSES – Hudson River to Chesapeake Bay . 1996. 86 p. (2)
8264. SOUTHEASTERN LIGHTHOUSES. Outer Banks to Cape Florida . 1998. 92p. (2)
SOUTHERN LIGHTHOUSES. Outer Banks to Cape Florida . 2002. 88p. (2)
8265. GULF COAST LIGHTHOUSES – Florida Keys to the Rio Grande . 1998. 92 p. (2)
8268. CALIFORNIA LIGHTHOUSES – Point St. George to the Gulf of Santa Catalina . 1997. 86 p. (2)
24240. Harding, R. Brewster. GREETINGS FROM MAINE – A Post Card Album. Portland. 1975. 80 p. Soft wraps. The fascinating story of how Maine pioneered the development of the picture postcard, as told by Maine post cards. Thoroughly illustrated with Maine postcards on all subjects including lighthouses. (VG). $14.
9453. [journal] THE KEEPER’S LOG. Journal of the United States Lighthouse Society. San Francisco . Var. Fill out your collection with these back issues of The Keeper’s Log. This is the premier journal for the lighthouse researcher or enthusiast, filled with hundreds of detailed articles on lighthouses, lightships and tenders across the country. Filled with remarkable original photographs. Most interesting reading. 1993 to 2001. Not quite a complete set – 28 issues. Excellent condition – good historical information. Entire lot comes with four official USLHS binders. Here is a great opportunity to add some of the earlier issues to your collection at an exceptionally low price of $3.50 each, four for $12. Entire lot $78
2488. Kobbe, Gustav. HEROES OF PEACE – A Series of Authentic Instances of Heroism in Every-Day Life. Babylon. c.1920. Inscribed to “Gustak Kobbie 2nd from his Grandmother 1924”. Special work, self published by the author, which includes five of his past works published in The Century Magazine: HEROISM IN THE LIGHTHOUSE SERVICE. A Description of Life on Matinicus Rock. The Century Magazine. 1897. 12p. Illustrated with 12 very nice engravings, this article describes the life of Abby Burgess and her family at the Matinicus Rock Light Station including her heroism in the winter gale of 1856. Later Abby married Captain Grant and continued her service at Matinicus and later at White Head Light. Most interesting. Illustrations include Keeper Frederick T. Hatch, the only recipient of the Gold Bar for Heroism, Abby Burgess, and more; HEROES OF THE LIFE-SAVING SERVICE” The Century Magazine. c.1898. 8p. Excellent descriptions of the life of the life-savers and the work that they perform at various stations across the country. With a nice full-page plate of “The Life Line” by Winslow Homer; EVERY-DAY HEROISM. 7 p.; HEROES OF THE RAILWAY SERVICE. 7 p.; HEROES OF PEACE – Volunteer Life-Savers. 7 p. Includes the volunteer life-savers of the Massachusetts Humane Society, Life Saving Service crews, and more. A most interesting piece especially bound by the author himself. Some wear, slightly brittle, one plate loose. (G+). $164.
C24128. THE HUMANE SOCIETY OF THE COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS . REPORT 1917-1918. Boston . 1918. 94p. Excellent report includes large fold-out map of the “Life Saving Stations of the Humane Society”. In addition, includes of all sixty five life saving stations and boat houses with their keepers, List of Persons to Whom Awards were Granted 1916 to 1918, sample award certificates, Instructions to the Captains of the Life Saving Stations [includes apparatus drills and operation, Instructions to Seamen, Instructions for Saving Drowning Persons, Restoring Persons Apparently Drowned, General Summary of the Work of the Society, Equipment of Stations, Act of Incorporation, By Laws, List of Officers and Trustees of the Society, List of Members, a detailed List of Awards Granted 1786 – 11918. A tremendous amount of information about this important early predecessor to the Life-Saving Service. (Photocopy $20).
Whaling…
2408. Chippendale, Captain H. A., SAILS AND WHALES. Boston . 1951. 232 p. DJ. (VG-). $16
2407. Hohman, E. P., THE AMERICAN WHALEMAN. London . 1974. 355 p. DJ. (VG). $24.
2404. Haley, Nelson Cole [harpooner in the Charles W. Morgan 1849-1853] . WHALE HUNT – The Narrative of a Voyage. New York . 1948. 304 p. DJ. $26
2403. Stackpole, Edouard A., THE SEA-HUNTERS – The New England Whalemen During Two Centuries 1653-1835. Philadelphia . 1953. 510 p. DJ. $26.
6333x. Putnam, George R. SENTINEL OF THE COASTS – THE LOG OF A LIGHTHOUSE ENGINEER. NY. 1937. 1st. ed. 368pp. DJ. Well illustrated with over 60 photos. This historical and descriptive work by the retired Commissioner of Lighthouses includes chapters on the history and organization of the Lighthouse Service, the perils of lightships, fog and radio, tenders, romance of the buoys, the government workers, and much more. A most important book that has become quite scarce. Unusually good condition for this title, clean, bright, tight, only slight fading to the spine, some wear to dj. (VG+) $134 net.
23556. Price List 63. NAVY, MARINES AND COAST GUARD. GPO. June 1936. 16p. Soft wraps. Contains list of publications available relating to the US Navy, Marines and Coast Guard. Subjects include air almanacs, cargo handling gear, mooring bits, fire hose, medicine chest, compress air plants, annual reports, direction finders, lots of pamphlets on all manor of subjects, instruction manuals, directories, and tables of data, indexes and catalogues, etc. Light foxing. (VG-). $8
23283. Bailey, John. SENTINEL OF THE JERSEY CAPE – The Story of the Cape May Point Lighthouse. 1st. 1989. 56p. Soft wraps. In an entertaining style, the author provides details of the history and construction of the light station, its technical details, and the life of the courageous keepers who maintained this light for so long. The author provides many details as to the lighting apparatus and equipment of the station, its past and present designs and layout, and the families that lived there. Includes many excerpts from the station logs, making this a detailed yet interesting account. Includes a complete listing of Keepers and assistants through the years. With numerous photos and illustrations. (VG). $26.
23182. Davis, Charles G., SHIPS OF THE PAST. The Marine Research Society, Salem, Massachusetts 1929, Publication Number Nineteen of the Marine Research Society. 170 p. DJ. This copy is a first edition of this remarkable work with original dust jacket. Chapters include, Block Island Boats And Pinkys, The Fishing Schooner, The Baltimore Clipper And Other Southern Craft, The Packet Ship Isaac Webb, The Frigate Raleigh, The Frigate Congress, Masts And Spars Of United States Naval Vessels And List Of Plans Of Ships. The volume has hard blue cloth covers and measures 8 ½ X 11 ½ inches. There are 170 pages with index plus 14 two-page plans in rear of book for 12 different ships. There are 54 plates (b&w photos plates and illustrations). Extremely desirable text on the subject, only a few have been found available and has become a sought after text for the marine historian or model ship builder. Clean, tight, very little wear in well worn dj. (VG). $188 net.
2393. Morrison, John H. HISTORY OF AMERICAN STEAM NAVIGATION. New York, W.F. Sametz & Co., 1903 First Edition. 8vo,. Pp. 630. Well illustrated with numerous engravings of steamships. Very good copy of the first edition of this important history of the invention and early development of steam boats and steam navigation, with especially good information on the Hudson and Delaware Rivers, Long Island Sound, the Great Lakes, and the Atlantic coast. Chapters cover the country by area with history of the noted vessels and steamship lines of the period. Also includes extensive information on the progress of the science at the time, history of various steamship lines. Also includes excellent chapters on tow boats, the state of lighthouses, lightships and fog signals and the work toward improvement, Life-Saving Service, Steamboat Inspection Service, and on the Steam Calliope or Organ. Superb early reference. In original black cloth, gilt spine lettering. Contents clean and crisp, some light wear, former owner’s bookplate on front pastedown. (VG). $138 net.
9217. Huntress, Keith. NARRATIVES OF SHIPWRECKS AND DISASTERS 1586-1860. Iowa State University Press. 1973. 248p. Unbound printer’s proofs, stapled by signature. A scholarly compilation of narratives of 24 notable shipwrecks with detailed accounts and a wealth of information. Included are such famous shipwrecks as the Nottingham Galley off Boon Island, the Brig Tyrrel off Sandy Hook, shipwreck of the French Frigate Medusa, destruction of the whale-ship Essex (Herman Melville based his last chapter in his book Moby-Dick on this incident.), loss of the Albion off Fastnet Rock, fatal explosion of the boiler on the steamship Helen MacGregor at Memphis, loss of the steam packet Home, and many more. Also includes a lengthy listing of narratives published of shipwrecks and disasters since the 1500’s. Nicely illustrated with period woodcut engravings. A most interesting and valuable work. (G). $62.
22494. Strobridge, Truman R. UNITED STATES COAST GUARD ANNOTATED BIBLIOGRAPHY. Wash. U. S. Coast Guard. June 1982. 148p. An important research text, provides a comprehensive listing of writings related to the US Coast Guard, from archival, fictional, historic and technical sources listed alphabetically by author and by topic. Included are descriptions of content and publication information. Subject index includes: Administration and Organization, aids tonavigation, Aviation, Biographies, Civil War, Cutters, Training, Equipment and Facilities, Expeditions, Flags Ensigns Pennants and Customs, Icebreaking, Law Enforcement, Medicine and Science, Minorities, Port Security, Prohibition Era, Revenue Cutter Service, Search and Rescue, Spanish-American War, Uniforms, World War I and II, and much more. Extremely valuable for research or collectors. (Spiral Bound Photocopy $34).
22452. Taylor, Theodore. FIRE ON THE BEACHES. New York. 1958. 248 p. DJ. In the war between the U-boat and the American merchant marine, 1942 was a year of crisis. Mr. Taylor tells of that bitter and heroic year which began with the US unprepared. This is a story of actions at sea, of the men who fought, and of the naval commanders who improvised escorts and developed a plan of convoy operations. An exciting account. Illustrated. (VG+). $19.
9217b. Huntress, Keith. NARRATIVES OF SHIPWRECKS AND DISASTERS 1586-1860. Iowa State University Press. 1973. 249p. DJ. A scholarly compilation of narratives of 24 notable shipwrecks with detailed accounts and a wealth of information. Included are such famous shipwrecks as the Nottingham Galley off Boon Island, the Brig Tyrrel off Sandy Hook, shipwreck of the French Frigate Medusa, destruction of the whale-ship Essex (Herman Melville based his last chapter in his book Moby-Dick on this incident.), loss of the Albion off Fastnet Rock, fatal explosion of the boiler on the steamship Helen MacGregor at Memphis, loss of the steam packet Home, and many more. Also includes a lengthy listing of narratives published of shipwrecks and disasters since the 1500’s. Nicely illustrated with period woodcut engravings. A most interesting and valuable work. (VG+). $48
9453. [journal] THE KEEPER’S LOG. Journal of the United States Lighthouse Society. San Francisco. Var. Fill out your collection with these back issues of The Keeper’s Log. This is the premier journal for the lighthouse researcher or enthusiast, filled with hundreds of detailed articles on lighthouses, lightships and tenders across the country. Filled with remarkable original photographs. Most interesting reading. Here is a great opportunity to add some of the earlier issues to your collection at an exceptionally low price of $3.50 each, four for $12. Entire lot $88. 1994 to 2001. Not quite a complete set. Excellent condition – good historical information. 29 magazines. Entire lot comes with four official USLHS binders.
22334. Lighthouse Stamp Society. CHECKLIST OF LIGHTHOUSES ON POSTAGE STAMPS. Lakewood. 2002. 50+ p. Spiral bound. For the lighthouse postal collector, here is a detailed checklist for collectors of postage stamps of the world that picture a lighthouse. From Aden to Yugoslavia, includes listings of thousands of stamps. Also includes duck stamps with lighthouses, stamps with lightships, and much more. Not illustrated but filled with important information for collectors. (M). $21.95.
22178c. [Commemorative Lighthouse Stamp Spring Promotion Poster] A set of five commemorative lighthouse stamps were issued April 26, 1990 featuring full color images of Admiralty Head Light, Cape Hatteras Light, West Quoddy Head Light, American Shoals Light and Sandy Hook Light. To promote this set in the Post Offices across the country, The Postal Service produced a large 14″ X 21″ full color poster featuring Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse at sunset, along with images of the five commemorative stamps. Poster is in unused condition, in original envelope as mailed to each postmaster. (M). $8.
22164. Thompson, Courtney. LIGHTHOUSES OF SOUTHERN NEW ENGLAND- Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut – A Pictorial Guide. 2002. 190p. Soft wraps. This companion to the author’s earlier works covers the lighthouses of Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut. Replacing and updating her former work Lighthouses of Massachusetts, this guide offers narrative material, directions and over 650 color photographs as well as additional vintage lighthouse views. With select historic photographs, maps and directions for finding the site, a history, description, legends and more, this is a great one-source travel guide and resource. (M). Published $24.95. Our price $23.95.
7101. Crowner, Gerald E., [Surfman, South Manitou Station 1926-1928]. THE SOUTH MANITOU STORY. 1982. 87p. Soft Wraps. Illustrated with 49 photographs, a chronicle of the author’s work and life as a surfman at the South Manitou Station. Filled with details of the day to day life at the station as well as at the South Island Lighthouse. This is one of the few true day-to-day accounts available from the men who manned the oars and walked patrol. Quite interesting. (M). $13.95.
PC-27. Collins, Francis A. SENTINELS ALONG OUR COAST. New York. 1922 1st. 272pp. Nicely illustrated with 24 official Lighthouse Service photographs. Nicely developed overview of the history of the Service, the light and fog stations, lightships, equipment and men of the Light-House Service. Chapters include Harbor Protection, Early Lighthouses, Building the Lighthouse, Developing the Light, A Night in the Lighthouse, A Service Depot, Aboard a Lighthouse Tender, Aboard a Light-ship, With the Coast Guard, and more. One of the nicer early references. Light overall wear, clean, tight. Bookplates. (VG-) $56.
994. McGuinn, William F. and Bruce S. Bazelon. AMERICAN MILITARY BUTTON MAKERS AND DEALERS; THEIR BACKMARKS & DATES. Fredericksburg. 1996. 135p. This is a comprehensive study that is an invaluable tool in identifying buttons and what period they were manufactured. With this and Albert’s book Record Of American Uniform And Historical Buttons, you are well equipped to properly identify buttons and determine what period they were manufactured. With hundreds of photographs and details of back-marks (lettering and symbols on the obverse of buttons) one can determine the date and location of manufacture, wonderful for dating your U. S. Revenue Cutter Service, Life-Saving Service, Lighthouse Establishment and Service and Coast Guard buttons. This is a comprehensive discussion and listing of all makers and suppliers of American military buttons covering the period from ca. 1790 to ca. 1945. A MUST for collectors and historians. Hard bound, high quality with literally hundreds of photographs. Scarce – now out of print. (M). $84.
4532m. Putnam, George R., BEACONS OF THE SEA: LIGHTING THE COASTS OF THE UNITED STATES. January, 1913. 53pp. Illustrated with 67 photographs including light vessels, depots, with chart. . [NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC, Vol XXIV, No. 1, January 1913]. Complete issue, tight, slight wear to spine, some soiling covers, contents clean, tight. Excellent descriptions of the work of the Lighthouse Service. Wonderfully illustrated with numerous official photographs. Includes especially nice photos of various light vessels, lenses and various lanterns and towers. More and more difficult to find this issue. (VG-). $48.
313. “THE LIGHTHOUSES OF THE UNITED STATES”, by Charles Nordhoff, March 1874 Harpers New Monthly Magazine. 13p., 4TO. With 13 excellent engravings and descriptions of 13 U.S. Lights including Fire Island, Bergen Point, Thatcher’s Island, Thimble Shoals, Blsy’s Island, Spectacle Reef, Point Reyes, Alligator Reef, Calcasieu and others. Provides a wonderful period overview of the history and operation of the Service. Excellent reading or mat the engravings for framing. Moderate wear, soil. (G) $24.
Still available…21471. Stonehouse, ,Frederick. WRECK ASHORE – The United States Life-Saving Service On The Great Lakes. Duluth. 1994. 213p. Soft wraps. From the mid-1780’s until it became the Coast Guard in 1915, the U.S. Life-Saving Service was responsible for the safety of the seas. Despite personal danger or difficulty, the life-savers invariably accomplished the task and became the stuff of legends. For this first time, this wonderful book details the exploits of these intrepid life-savers on the Great Lakes. Just filled with information and hundreds of vintage photographs, Mr. Stonehouse explains all facets of the organization, the stations, the keepers and men, the equipment that they used as well as numerous rescues performed. Excellent reading with a wealth of information and a must for maritime collectors. (M). Published at $29.95. Our price $27.95.
21235. Scott, Justin. THE SHIP KILLER. New York. 1978. 341p. DJ. Signed by the author. This stunning novel tells of the ketch Siren, run down by a giant supertanker bursting from a squall at full speed. In a few seconds all were lost except one, who was finally able to reach the coast of England. Thus began an odyssey to find the giant tanker and her master and to win the justice that was denied by the authorities. (F). $42.
21264. Merkel, Jim. MAJESTIC LIGHTS – The Apostle Islands Lighthouses. St. Louis. 2001. 120p. Soft wraps. “A contractor exactingly builds a lighthouse, on the wrong island… on a night of vicious storms, lighthouse keepers within a few miles of each other witness two shipwrecks…” Such are the stories of light keepers and their families in the Apostle Islands of Lake Superior. Illustrated with vintage photographs and drawings. Well done history of the lights and the families that kept them burning. (M). $19.95.
FG-27. Floherty, John J. SENTRIES OF THE SEA. Philadelphia. 1942. 220 pp. DJ. Well illustrated with over 85 U.S.C.G photos. Vivid presentation of the men of the Lighthouse Service and their battles with the elements of nature. The author tells the story of who the men are that man these lonely sentries, what they were like and what their work consisted of. Numerous vintage photographs show details of the stations, lanterns, lens apparatus, tenders, and more. Very nicely done. Clean, tight, in lightly chipped dj. A desirable title. (VG). $36.
466. LETTER FROM THE SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY TRANSMITTING AN ESTIMATE OF THE APPROPRIATIONS FOR THE SERVICE OF THE YEAR 1817. Wash. Davis. 1817. Folio size. 54p. Includes appropriations for all departments including detailed estimates for the Light-House Establishment (3p.). In addition to oil and supplies, includes appropriations for building light-houses at: Cape Lookout, North Carolina; Cumberland Island, Georgia; Bird Island and Presque Isla on Lake Erie; New Inlet, North Carolina; Bald Head, North Carolina; Race Point and Point Gammon on Cape Cod, Petite Manan in Maine; Cumberland Island and Sapelo Island, Georgia; fitting up lights with lighting apparatus, and more. (VG). $48 net.
9217. Huntress, Keith. NARRATIVES OF SHIPWRECKS AND DISASTERS 1586-1860. Iowa State University Press. 1973. 248p. Unbound printer’s proofs, stapled by signature. A scholarly compilation of narratives of 24 notable shipwrecks with detailed accounts and a wealth of information. Included are such famous shipwrecks as the Nottingham Galley off Boon Island, the Brig Tyrrel off Sandy Hook, shipwreck of the French Frigate Medusa, destruction of the whale-ship Essex (Herman Melville based his last chapter in his book Moby-Dick on this incident.), loss of the Albion off Fastnet Rock, fatal explosion of the boiler on the steamship Helen MacGregor at Memphis, loss of the steam packet Home, and many more. Also includes a lengthy listing of narratives published of shipwrecks and disasters since the 1500’s. Nicely illustrated with period woodcut engravings. A most interesting and valuable work. (G). $62.
22315. [newspaper accounts] THE GREAT HURRICANE AND TIDAL WAVE –September 1938. Ten newspapers of the day provide a factual and pictorial record of the worst disaster that has ever struck New England. Compiled within days of the awful event, numerous part and full page photographs and text record the wild gale. A graphic look into the damage the sweeping winds and tides brought to the region. Vivid photos include vessels on the beach, the historic Narragansett Coast Guard station, Sandy Point lighthouse, Brenton Point Coast Guard station, and much more. Papers include Providence Journal, Pawtucket Times, Providence Evening Bulletin. Full newspapers with articles of the day, clean, overall browning from age, one original fold.. (G+). $48.
22266. na. Facsimile of a Letter Book of Colonel Sharp Delany, First Collector, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, August 7, 1789 to December 20, 1790. (Washington, DC: Department of the Treasury, United States Customs Service, June 1987) 100 p. As new, blue Buckram with old stamped lettering, no DJ as published. 95 pages of Delany’s manuscript letter book are reproduced with a forward by Michael N. Ingrisano, Jr., Director of Information Service Division, of the Treasury Department. Colonel Sharp Delany was the first collector of Customs appointed by President George Washington for the port of Philadelphia. Colonel Delany’s letterbook for the period of August 7, 1789 to December 20, 1790 contains facsimile reproductions of his letters in his original hand. These letters were significant because they portray some of the problems of a Customs Service trying to emerge from a succession of administration under the British Crown, under the individual States, and finally as a Federal entity seeking to protect the revenue of the United States. Included is Delany’s October 31, 1789 letter to Alexander Hamilton, the first Secretary of the Treasury, that advocated regular boat patrols of the coast. This letter was instrumental in establishing the Revenue Cutter Service, which joined with the Life-Saving Service to become the US Coast Guard in 1915. Other letters discuss seizures, purchase and operation of vessels, and customs duties. Extremely scarce, essential for research on the subject. (M). $85.
6106e. Cox, William Van Zandt, and Northrup, Milton Harlow, LIFE OF SAMUEL SULLIVAN COX. Syracuse. 1898. 281p. Nicely gilt embossed binding. Dedicated by the author “To the Employees of the …Life-Saving Service….” Given the title “Father of the Life-Saving Service”, Mr. Cox spent his thirty year career in the United States Congress attempting to upgrade the Life-Saving Service. Mr. Cox was most proud of his work in creating the Federal statute that created the Life-Saving Service and his untiring zeal in pressing for its eventual passage. Throughout his career he continued to press for the upgrading of this humanitarian service such that, upon his death his widow was presented by members of the Life-Saving Service with a memorial vase inscribed to his memory. This volume details his distinguished life and his efforts in support of the Service. Includes a nice photograph of Sumner I. Kimball and of the Port Huron Life-Saving Station. Illustrated with 28 photographs. Pages lightly browned, otherwise clean, tight, front hinge open but intact, covers with some sunning and soiling. (VG-). $86 net.
21387b. Darrah, William Culp. STEREO VIEWS – A HISTORY OF STEREOGRAPHS IN AMERICA AND THEIR COLLECTION. Gettysburg. 1964. 255 p. One of the more fascinating collectibles today continues to be early photography including stereographs. For the collector or professional, this book continues to be the “bible” on the subject. Includes the history, types, manufacture and development in America, types and dating of views and more. Most important if the author’s checklist of photographers with dates of their primary period of producing views. A most detailed reference and almost impossible to find today. (VG+). $138 net.
2244. Schriber, Mary Suzanne. WRITING HOME – AMERICAN WOMEN ABROAD 1830-1920. Charlottesville. 1997. 254p. Before the 1820’s women’s travels outside the United States were infrequent and “accidental”, undertaken to accompany fathers and husbands. With the advent of steam-powered ships, followed by the luxurious liners, American women began to journey in significant numbers. Between 1830 and 1900 books of travel written by women number at least 195, by far most after the Civil Way. Writing Home studies these books and the conditions that made them possible, with the tales of women who transformed themselves into travelers and business women. Of particular interest to us here, the author examines Martha Coston’s work A Signal Success: The Work and Travels of Mrs. Martha J. Coston, an Autobiography. Martha Coston traveled to sell night signals that he husband had developed. Widowed and in financial difficulty, she traveled to introduce the signals into the navies of the world and win proper recognition of her husband’s talents. The author discusses her work and writings, and studies her success in a men’s world of business. (M). $36.
United States Life-Saving Service.
ANNUAL REPORT OF THE OPERATIONS OF THE UNITED STATES LIFE-SAVING SERVICE
2286. Bunting, William H. STEAMERS, SCHOONERS, CUTTERS, AND SLOOPS – Marine Photographs of N. L. Stebbins taken from 1884 to 1907. Boston. 1974. 126 p. DJ. Among the more noteworthy pioneer American marine and yachting photographers were men like N. L. Stebbins, David Mason Little, Henry G. Peabody. These noted photographers ranged the New England coast from New York to Massachusetts capturing on glass-plate negatives the great yachts and the most animated yachting events of the last quarter of the nineteenth century. During their career they shot thousands of views, a great many of which appeared periodically in numerous yachting publications. Stebbins, himself, during the period 1891 through 1910 published his illustrated coast pilots which still today endure as reference works. This book reproduces in full page format many of his superb views and remains a tribute to early marine photography. Superb yachting photographs with detailed text make this a must for your library. Clean, crisp in good dj. (F-). $74.
4532k. Putnam, George R., BEACONS OF THE SEA: LIGHTING THE COASTS OF THE UNITED STATES. January, 1913. 53 pp. Illustrated with 67 photographs including light vessels, depots, and much more. [disbound from NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC, Vol. XXIV, No. 1, January 1913]. Excellent descriptions of the work of the Lighthouse Service by the Commissioner himself. . Wonderfully illustrated with numerous official photographs. Includes especially nice photos of various light vessels, lenses and various lanterns and towers. More and more difficult to find this article. Disbound, otherwise contents clean, tight. (VG). $46.
6335f. Collins, Francis A. SENTINELS ALONG OUR COAST. New York. 1922 1st. 272pp. Nicely illustrated with 24 official Lighthouse Service photographs. Nicely developed overview of the history of the Service, the light and fog stations, lightships, equipment and men of the Light-House Service. Chapters include Harbor Protection, Early Lighthouses, Building the Lighthouse, Developing the Light, A Night in the Lighthouse, A Service Depot, Aboard a Lighthouse Tender, Aboard a Light-ship, With the Coast Guard, and more. One of the nicer early references. Extremely clean, tight, near fine. (F-) $88.
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