A very rare work with only one other example on the market; and that at thrice the price. Additionally, this one has some wonderful provenance. It bears the original printed book ownership plate of Samuel F. Hersey [1812-1875].
Hersey was one of the original lumber barons of Maine [where the present was printed] and also one a member of the Maine House of Representatives and delegate to the Republican National Convention of 1860, where he cast his vote for Abraham Lincoln. He was also close friends with Hannibal Hamlin, who was also a Maine native.
The work was gifted to his daughter, Sophionia Hersey.
Chapters cover the benefits of Christianity to women when compared to the plight of women globally, the role of Christianity in dignifying women as fully equal with men [a thought which the author urges should fill women with self respect, to pursue study, etc. . . a rather progressive view], particular temptations of the time toward young ladies, intellectual improvement, female influence [here, he hedges and capitulates to the social norms; he was doing so well!], etc.
Whitman, Jason. The Young Lady's Aid to Usefulness and Happiness. Second Edition. Improved and Enlarged. Portland. S. H. Colesworthy. 1839. 288pp.
Good with some fading to cloth, moderate foxing, and toning throughout. Very sound and attractive.
