“THE FIRST WRITER TO USE AMERICAN DIALECT”

[HALIBURTON, Thomas Chandler]. The Americans at Home; or, Byeways, Backwoods, and Prairies. Edited by the Author of “Sam Slick.” London: Hurst and Blackett, 1854. Three volumes. Octavo, publisher’s blind-stamped green cloth. $800.

Early edition of this collection of humorous anecdotes of rural America by “Sam Slick.”

“Haliburton was the first writer to use American dialect, and according to Artemus Ward founded the American school of humor… Haliburton, writing as Sam Slick, told his countrymen many home truths. Those who laughed at Sam Slick’s jokes did not always relish his outspoken criticisms… his fame, however, became general” (DNB). This edition is likely the first edition. Sabin 29680 lists a London 1843 edition that is not to be found in any other source. Canadiana 3442 (states this edition is the first).

Spines lightly sunned; original publisher’s cloth near-fine, inner hinges expertly reinforced. An exceptional copy.