Webster, Noah. (1758-1843
Autograph Letter
A rare early autograph letter signed New York, November 3, 1788, by the American lexicographer, publisher of the famous Dictionary of the English Language and whose speller and grammar books educated generations of young Americans. To Isaiah Thomas, the printer of Webster’s books, “I shall have about 500 of the American Spelling Book ready to be delivered about the time I shall begin the Lectures. They will be done much better than Folson’s edition;...you may have them at a price they sell at by the dozen in Boston...I flatter myself you will not refuse sogood an offer...“ Integral semi-detached holograph address leaf. 1 page, 4to. Handsomely framed.
Best known for his compilation of the American English dictionary, Webster was also famous in his day for The American Spelling Book. This book, first published in 1783, was a very popular textbook for young children and by the end of the 19th century, it had sold an astonishing 100 million copies. It not only taught students how to read and spell, but also provided lessons on subjects such as morality and the principles of American government. This last was particularly close to the heart of Webster's work, for through his dictionary, speller, and other educational work, he hoped to create a distinctly American culture and language. Through its many editions, Webster contracted with local publishers to make copies for their regions. The present letter is addressed to the publisher of the version printed in Boston. (Joshua Kendall, The Forgotten Founding Father: Noah Webster's Obsession and the Creation of an American Culture (New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 2010), p. 7; 74-75; 92-93) (14528)