A rather scarce first [and only] edition of William Allen's edition of Psalms and Hymns. The preface contains an extensive history of the use of Psalms and Hymns, including early American use of the Psalter, Bay Psalm Book, Joel Barlow's editions, etc.,
Allen was pastor at Pittsfield before serving as the President of Dartmouth, and later, Bowdoin Colleges.
No copies in the trade and not at auction since 1912. The 1912 example was apparently offered with a tipped in article explaining that the book was indeed scarce because it was suppressed when issued. I have not been able to trace the reason for its offense and withdrawal from distribution.
Allen, William. Psalms and Hymns for Public Worship, Containing All the Psalms and Hymns of Dr. Watts, Which are Deemed Valuable, Together with a New Version of All the Psalms, and Many Original Hymns, Besides a Large Collection from Other Writers. By William Allen, D. D. President of Bowdoin College; Author of the Amer. Biog. and Hist. Dictionary. Boston. Wm. Peirce. 1835. 690pp.
A good + copy, bound in reverse calf with rubbing and minor tears and chips as shown, generally solid, with generally bright pages and light foxing.
