Description: This listing is for two historic books that delve into the influences behind Clement C. Moore's "A Visit from St. Nicholas." Both of these impressive books are included in the purchase: -1850 printing of "Knickerbocker's History of New York" written by Washington Irving in 1809 -1866 printing of "History of the City of New York" written by Mary L. Booth in 1859 BACKGROUND: Washington Irving's satirical work, "Knickerbocker's History of New York," originially printed in 1809, contains a character inspired by his friend John Pintard's admiration for the Christian Saint, Nicholas of Myra. In the book, Irving introduces a jolly, bearded St. Nicholas character who smoked a pipe with the smoke encircling his head; flew in a reindeer-drawn wagon; and left gifts for children in their stockings by the chimney. This depiction, found in Oloffe's dream (Book II, Chapter V), influenced subsequent works like "Old Santeclause," published by William Gilley. Clement C. Moore, a friend of both Irving and Gilley, drew from these sources to create his own poem in 1823, "A Visit From St. Nicholas." Mary L. Booth's "History of the City of New York," published in 1859, provides a further look into the city's Dutch heritage and ties to St. Nicholas. At the end of Chapter V, pages 192–195, Booth writes that St. Nicholas was not only the patron saint of New York City in the early 19th century but also a central figure in one of the annual Dutch festivals. Clement C. Moore, a New York resident, was influenced by these prevalent Dutch customs incorporating Dutch elements in his poem, including the original use of "Dunder and Blixem" for two reindeer names. Through his work, Moore effectively blended New York's Dutch traditions with the emerging American conception of Santa Claus. CONDITION: "Knickerbocker's History of New York" - Dated 1848, 1850. Measures 6 x 8.5 inches. Fine binding features, green leather cover with with raised spine ribs, gilt cover designs, and gilt page edging. There are 454 pages with many fine illustrations by Felix Darley, including a large pullout at the end and a portrayal of Irving's St. Nicholas character (see photo above). Excellent condition overall with wear mostly at the hinges, though still secure. Pages are clean and binding is tight. A beautiful book! "History of the City of New York" - Dated 1866. A large book, it measures 7 x 9.5 inches. Fine binding features, green leather cover with gilt cover designs and printed page edging. There are 450 pages, including several illustrations. Very good condition overall. The cover shows surface wear but still attractive. The title page has some chips around the edges, otherwise pages are clean with tight binding. On consignment from a lifelong Christmas collector. Nice price! Thanks for looking. Please CLICK HERE for more vintage Christmas books
Price: 199.99 USD
Location: Upstate, New York
End Time: 2024-11-23T20:41:01.000Z
Shipping Cost: 19.8 USD
Product Images
Item Specifics
All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Author: Washington Irving
Topic: Christmas
Subject: Santa Claus
Year Printed: 1850
Original/Facsimile: Original
