SOLICITING FUNDS FOR CHURCH MISSIONS IN CALIFORNIA, 1845

(CALIFORNIA) RODRIGUEZ DE SAN MIGUEL, Juan. Documentos Relativos al Piadoso Fondo de Misiones para Conversión y Civilización de las Numerosas Tribus Bárbaras de la Antigua y Nueva California. México: Luis Abadiano y Valdés, 1845. Octavo, saddle stitched. Housed in custom cloth chemise and half morocco slipcase. $2500.

First edition of this collection of 23 documents detailing the urgent need for funds for the church in California. The copy of renowned Americana collector Bruce McKinney, with his bookplate.

“There are 23 documents including the law of Sept. 19, 1836, the decrees of Santa Anna of Feb. 8 and Oct. 24, 1842, with the protests of Pedro Ramirez, also decree of Nov. 12, 1842, and various representations to the government by the apoderados calling for funds in view of the pressing necessities of the church in California. In 1843 Ramirez was the representative of Garcia Diego, Bishop of California. He was succeeded by Rodriguez de San Miguel as apoderado in 1843” (Streeter). Rodriguez mentions that he had hoped to publish further documents, but limited resources allowed him to print only the 23 found here. Text in Spanish. Streeter Sale 2504. Sabin 72543. Cowan, 206. Barrett, Baja 2138. Penciled notations to title page.

Minor stain to final page, a few tiny spots to title page. An excellent copy. Scarce.