Paper Historical Memorabilia

1812 "United States of Nth America -- Carte des Etats-Unis De L'Amerique Septentrionale" Two-Sheet Map by Tardieu This attractive map, published in Paris in 1812, is one of the most rare large format maps from the period. It features a view of the East Coast of the U.S. from Maryland to just below South Carolina. Additionally, Ellicott’s plan for the City of Washington D.C. is included at the top right and an illustration of Niagara Falls is shown at the bottom right with a description in both French and English. This extremely detailed map not only depicts the mountainous regions of the southeastern U.S., but also includes names of regions, rivers, and towns. Based on the first state of Arrowsmith’s 4-sheet map of the United States, this map is completely engraved by Tardieu in Paris and showcases high quality engravings. This detailed map of the recently independent United States includes one of the largest and earliest examples of the Ellicott plan of Washington DC. The artist, Pierre François Tardieu (PF Tardieu) was a very well-known map engraver, geographer, and illustrator. Awarded a bronze medal by King Louis-Phillipe for the accuracy and beauty of his map-making, Tardieu produced many fine works including maps of Louisiana...

Walton Family Genealogy antique handmade book Walton Family Genealogy "Ancestors of Adelaide Bereman Walton", Los Angeles circa 1908 This is really a fascinating book. A labor ...

Offered is a unique collage featuring signatures from some of the greatest captains in history: Claire Chennault, Henry “Hap” Arnold, Hoyt Vandenberg, Carl “Tooey” Spaatz, William “Billy” Mitchell and Edward “Eddie” Rickenbacker. These men are some of the most influential figures in U.S. Air Force history. Each captain was involved in WWI and/or WWII, some were aces who proved the usability and effectiveness of airpower, and others were brilliant leaders who paved the way for U.S. victories and the development of the U.S. Air Force. This framed collage includes original signatures on cards, a letter, and a photo. A photo of a biplane is featured at bottom and includes signatures from Claire Chennault, Hap Arnold, and Hoyt Vandenberg. There is also a letter, dated 1942 and featured prominently in the center of the collage, that is written to Elwood Maurer and signed by Carl Spaatz. Two cards appear on either side of the letter, with signatures from Eddie Rickenbacker and William Mitchell. Complimentary black and white photographs accompany the signatures elements as well as a decorative pair of WWI pilot wings...

This very large and colorful placard sized store display sign was presumed to have been made in the United States for the Gran Habano Cigar Company of Honduras in the 1960s to advert...

Vintage LIFE Magazine from December 1963. This piece is in a wonderful vintage condition consistent with age and use. We think this would be a great gift for the political junkie per...

17th century Italian Gravure/Cartography Le Theatrum statuum Regiae Celsitudinis Sabaudiæ Ducis or at Theatrum Statum Sabaudiæ, is a representative and iconographic representation f...

This 1945 color poster features an American pilot and a ground crew Staff Sergeant shaking hands and the words “Seeing the Job Through! Enlist in the Regular Army Air...

This WWI poster features a US sailor after disembarking from a ship and ready for battle. In the background are powerful warships setting the scene. Below th...

This nineteenth-century engraving shows a liberty pole being raised in a town square in 1776, while a sign bearing the face of King George III is removed in the background. The rioto...

Offered is a custom signature collage, celebrating Dwight D. Eisenhower. The collage features Eisenhower's original signature on a card, which is paired with a black and white photograph of the five-star general. The signature appears in dark, bold ink "Dwight Eisenhower...

Two books on trade tokens. 1.) U.S. Merchant Tokens 1845-1860 by Russell Rulau. Iola: Krause Publications, Inc., 1985. Softcover. 192 pp. A catalogue of the unofficial coinage of Ame...

Very handsome original portrait drawing signed Chady, dated 1967. This interesting piece of art resembles Vincent van Gogh's self portrait. Measur...

Presenting An Extremely Rare Edition hardback copy of Bibliomania or Book Madness; A Bibliographical Romance. Illustrated with Cuts. By Thomas Frognall Dibdin, D.D. New and Improved Edition, to which are now added Preliminary Observations, and a Supplement Including a Key to The Assumed Characters in the Drama. Published by Henry G. Bohn, York Street, Covent Garden, London MDCCCXLII (1842). Originally retailed by Little & Brown, Booksellers & Importers of Boston.. This Extremely Rare Book Is In Excellent condition for its age, some very minor ‘knicks’ on the edges of the spine and cover, but otherwise extremely GOOD. The text is almost perfect. Red Moroccan Leather and wavy board jacket with gilt edge and gold lettering. As An Added Bonus ..... the Book comes with a Label belonging to it's original owner, Major William Alexander Obenchain. Major William Alexander Obenchain was a man of prominence in Bowling Green, KY and originally, Virginia. He served as a Colonel/Major on General Lee...

This colorful lithograph by H. A. Ogden was published in 1908 by Brigadier General J. B. Allshire. Originally published as a comprehensive series of U. S. military uniforms, this pri...

This collage includes a limited edition photograph by Margaret Bourke-White originally taken in 1952, numbered 4/50+10 and blindstamped in the lower right margin with the artist’s si...

The Life of a Forgotten Magicians We are proud to offer a unique collection of one of London’s most unquestionably entertaining magicians known as Bernard and Ms Radar. A fascinating collection of 1940s-1960s items relating to the telepathic magic act 'Bernard and Miss Radar', a mind reading husband and wife duo, who extensively toured British theatres performing their telepathy based act and who were apparently the recipients of the 'World Convention of Magicians Award', which they received at the Magic Circle Convention in London in 1955. The collection comprises the basis for their act; 2 large handmade jigsaw puzzles, a “Radar” hat, top hat and other associated items with which they performed. There is also a large quantity (over 1000) of publicity photographs, theatre contracts, Magic Circle programmes, scrapbooks and other ephemera relating to their career, plus approximately fifteen original 1940s and 1950s theatre and other posters and several hand bills and flyers, all including Bernard and Miss Radar on the billing, along with other variety acts of the period. Some of the theatre posters included are; The Hippodrome, Eastbourne, Arcadia Theatre, Skegness, Commodore, Ryde, The Knightstone, Weston-Super-Mare and The Palace Theatre, Reading, which now all been framed to preserve them for display. Dimensions in inches: (Poster sizes) H 32” x W 22” x D 2” Origin: England Condition: Aged through wear and tear is present across all the item, some fading across the posters however they are not torn or damp. Some of the hand painted items also show aged wear and light discolouration. Please take note that these items are over 70 years old and would have been used as part of this magician’s act, therefore its safe to say these items all show age, however, are very well preserved. Please review all the photos and propose questions were unsure of the condition to avoid any disappointment. Over 1000 artifacts - most not pictured due to volume of items. Postage cost is high due to the weight (30kg) and volume of items in this lot, 10 posts mounted, 1 full box of archived material, top hat box...

Presented is an original map of Albert Boschke's extremely sought-after "Topographical Map of the District of Columbia Surveyed in the Years 1856 ...

Taylor and his Generals. New York: E.H. Butler & Co., 1847. First Edition. Rebound in quarter leather and marble paper boards. Housed in custom slipcase. Presented is the 1847 First Edition of Taylor and His Generals. Published by E.H. Butler & Company, the book has numerous portraits and engravings throughout. It has been beautifully rebound in quarter leather and marble paper boards. The spine has gilt embossed decoration stating that it’s a first edition. The book is housed in a custom-built archival slipcase with a photo of Taylor on the front. Written and published before Taylor ran for the Presidency, this book would have been a powerful propaganda tool for the soon-to-be 12th President of the United States. The full title page describes the work as “Taylor and His Generals; A Biography of Major-General Zachary Taylor; And Sketches of the Lives of Generals Worth, Wool, and Twiggs with a full account of the Actions of their Various Divisions in Mexico Up to the Present Time; Together with a Sketch of the Major-General Winfield Scott and an Account of his Divisions in Mexico.” Taylor fought and commanded troops in the War of 1812, Black Hawk War, and the Second of the Seminole Wars before playing a major role in the victory of the Mexican-American War. The book takes the reader through the early life of Taylor and his military career with a particular focus on his surprising victory at the Battle of Buena Vista. Generals Worth, Wool, and Twiggs that served under Taylor and Major-General Scott each get a chapter dedicated to their own history and military careers The Battle of Buena Vista took place in February of 1847 during the Mexican-American War. With only about 5,000 soldiers, Taylor repelled General Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna...

- Letter signed by Stan Laurel, one half of comedy duo Laurel & Hardy - Written to news anchorman Glenn Laxton concerning Laurel's early career Stan ...

Michael X (1933-1975) born Michael de Freitas, was also known under the Alias Michael Abdul Malik. A Black Power leader in 1960s Britain, de Freitas made his living from the numerous...

- A document signed by one of the most significant world leaders in 20th century history, Winston Churchill This document relates to the naturalization of a Russian immigrant and ...

Rare and important, museum worthy document in a custom made Arts and Crafts frame. What we are offering here are actually two unique antiques into one. In the year 1906 the world exhibition...

This highly detailed pocket map is a topographical map of the state of Colorado by Louis Nell from 1907. The map "has been complied from all availabl...

A collection of four Swedish architectural design etchings in period Karl Johan frames from the 19th century. This antique set of framed wall art f...

Eldest son of John Lennon, Julian Lennon (1963-) is also a multi-million-selling musician. Julian's childhood drawing of a classmate inspired John Lennon's song Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds. His relationship with his father was one of turmoil and he forged a stronger bond with fellow Beatle Paul McCartney. McCartney wrote the song Hey Jude...

The unique Elizabeth Taylor Richard Burton love letter: A love letter written, in pencil, by Elizabeth Taylor to her husband Richard Burton on their ten year wedding anniversary, March 15th 1974, just days before their breakup. Taylor and Burton were renting a house in Oroville, California while Burton was filming his latest movie "The Klansman". Their lease on the home began on February 15th 1974. The letter reads in full: "My darling (my still) my husband. I wish I could tell you of my love for you, of my fear, my delight, my pure animal pleasure of you - (with you) - my jealousy, my pride, my anger at you, at times. Most of all my love for you, and whatever loves you can dole out to me - I wish I could write about it but I can't. I can only "boil and bubble" inside and hope you understand how I really feel. Anyway I lust thee, your (still) wife. P.S. O'Love, let us never take each other for granted again! P.P.S. How about that- ten years!!" Taylor had warned Burton from the start of their marriage in 1964 that she had zero tolerance for infidelity. However during the filming of When Eagles Dare, Burton resumed an affair with co-star Mary Ure. After that, Taylor made sure she was on set with Burton every day in 1969 for the shooting of Anne of the thousand days. A further affair with co-star Genevieve Bujold lasted many years. An affair with Nathalie Delon followed in 1972, along with rumors of an affair with Raquel Welch. Taylor finally lost patience during the filming of The Klansman when Burton commenced an affair with "a teenager, a hotel waitress and a string of other women." The love letter is accompanied by a letter of provenance from Toni Hennings, the woman who rented the Oroville house to them: "This letter written by Elizabeth Taylor while renting my home from Feb 15th till April 18th 1974. It was left behind - inside a book in a drawer under the master bedroom bed...

A wonderful signed photograph of Karen & Richard Carpenter for sale Musical duo Karen (1950-1983) & Richard Carpenter (1946-) were the number one American singing act of the 1970s. Their soft pop sound captivated the hearts of the millions worldwide who hung on every note of their 11 albums. They have sold over 100 million records to date. Karen Carpenter...

1925 (24 Aug to 2 Sep) duty die proofs for the new 1½pi and 2½pi plates (each with HORIZONTAL fraction bar), the unique and remarkably full documentation comprising three proofs of each value in different forms. The first pair are cut down (27-28 x 33-5mm) and affixed to separate cards (70 x 85mm) with matching M/S endorsements ('Cyprus Req 3947/1' at upper right, dated '28.8.25' at lower right, with 'appd/J Stanford...

Gregg Rolie (1947-) is an American musician best known as one of founding members of the rock band Santana. Santana have sold over 90 million albums worldwide making them one of the ...

A wonderful signed photograph of Karen and Richard Carpenter for sale Musical duo Karen (1950-1983) and Richard Carpenter (1946-) were the number one American singing act of the 1970s. Their soft pop sound captivated the hearts of the millions worldwide who hung on every note of their 11 albums. They have sold over 100 million records to date. Karen Carpenter...

Two items connected with Gretna Green, a popular site for runaway couples. A postcard signed by anvil priest Richard Rennison. An original blank marriage certificate...

A William Gladstone signed and inscribed title page. William Gladstone is the only person to serve four terms as Prime Minister of the United Kingdom. He was first elected in 1868 and turned 84 during his final term in 1894. In that time he pushed for fundamental reforms, including votes for women and independence for Ireland. He remains one of Britain’s most inspirational leaders. This is the front page of an auction catalogue dated January 30, 1893 – Gladstone’s final year as Prime Minister. Along the left hand margin Gladstsone has written “Please send … lots as usual and c.o. 10 Downing St.” Gladstone autographs that mention 10 Downing Street, his Prime Ministerial address, are highly prized. Below you’ll find an excellent Gladstone signature and the date. Gladstone was a keen antiquarian and amassed a vast library of books...

This is a colorful folding pocket map of the city of Chicago, published by The Clason Map Co., circa 1926. This highly decorative, double sided map features "Pictorial Map of Chicago...

This is the 1892 artist proof edition of 200 signed by the artist, Douglas Adams. Douglas Adams (1853-1920) was a London based landscape painter exhibiting at various galleries betwe...

This is a very good 1st edition (second issue) of this much sought after society journal which is still in a very good dust jacket though there are one or two short closed tears and ...

Unique and original work of art about the history of Switzerland and France. This impressive and powerful work of art is definitely unique and interesting for many reasons. First of all, the style in which this charcoal drawing (with patches of watercolor) was made, is typical of the era and a joy to look at. Secondly, the posters of this era are rare and sought after, so to find an original drawing makes this antique extra desirable. Thirdly, the powerful male and female figure show a kind of determination that is often found in propaganda posters from this era, but the quality of the execution lifts it to another level. Fourthly, if you read about the French revolutionary...

- A pair of handwritten letters by one of the most influential writers of the 19th century, Lewis Carroll Charles Lutwidge Dodgson (1832-1898), known more commonly by his pen name...

Eldest son of John Lennon, Julian Lennon (1963-) is also a multi-million-selling musician. Julian's childhood drawing of a classmate inspired John Lennon's song Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds. His relationship with his father was one of turmoil and he forged a stronger bond with fellow Beatle Paul McCartney. McCartney wrote the song Hey Jude...

A beautiful blue ink autograph from music legend Annie Lennox Annie Lennox came to international fame as part of musical duo Eurythmics, selling over 7...

Oliver Hardy was an American comedian and actor, most famous for being one half of the popular comedy duo, Laurel and Hardy. One of the most popular comed...

This striking wall map was published in 1854 by Ensign, Bridgman & Fanning and has both full original hand-coloring and original hardware. This impression is both informative and highly decorative. The states are divided into counties, outlined in red, green, and black, and subdivided into towns. Roads, canals, and railroad lines are prominently depicted, although they are not all labeled. The mapmakers also marked lighthouses, banks, churches, and prominent buildings, with a key at right. The map is an informative and comprehensive overview of the infrastructural development of New England prior to the Civil War. Physical geographies depicted include elevation, conveyed with hachure marks, rivers and lakes. The impression features an inset map of Boston...

- A touching handwritten love letter by one of the most legendary outlaws of the Old West, Frank James The letter, dated July 7, 1883, was written by James to his wife whilst he was in jail in Gallatin, Missouri. He was awaiting trial for murder and robbery of the Rock Island Line train at Winston, Missouri, in which the train engineer William Westfall and a passenger Frank McMillan were killed. Having spent a year in custody, James' trial began on August 20, and lasted just three days, before the jury returned a resounding verdict of 'not guilty'. The tender love letter reveals James to be both highly romantic and highly literate. Although he lived much of his life as a violent outlaw, he had been raised as a preacher's son surrounded by books, and during his youth developed a love for the works of Shakespeare. James was said to always carry a book in his saddle bag, even when he was on the run from the law, and he shared this passion for literature with Ann throughout their 40-year marriage. Here's the text in full: "My dear wife, "Your dear letter of the 1st was handed to me not exceeding an hour ago. It arrived here on the third, at least it is as marked. Now I sent foreword .. in this manner. There are very few men in this world that care anything for their wives, that they naturally suppose that all men are alike. "How badly they are deceived. If there is anything on this earth that is half as dear to me as my wife I have failed to find it. You are everything to me and the only living human being that has ever possessed my whole love, my entire confidence, the only one that ever will and I feel as that love and confidence will never be abused. "I have lived as I think to see all my fondest hopes realised. Long years ago I hoped and prayed that god would give me a true woman for my wife and i feel as if he has done so and anyone who has had a chance for happiness in this belief is more fortunate than the possessor of a thousand worlds. "I am trying to pass the time reading and writing - I regret that I am deprived of your beauty and I am writing to suffer that I have no visitors as told you in last. "Enclosed I send you an editorial from the trenchant pen of Rob M Yast that I think a grand effort. "I suppose you remember the circumstances of Jarvis shooting Englehart. Yast talks of love and forgiveness & Jarvis has shown that he possessed both - as also has Yast. He’s shown himself to be a true friend of me and mine. "Yast seems a man of most liberal whims. I dare say nine out of every ten would say that they would not forgive Jarvis for what he has done. Yet if it is the means of reclaiming ... I don't think he will ever regret it. "Regarding mamma, this may not be interesting to you but it has been to me. I had a letter from ma today, she feels disappointed as you did not visit... "I supposed it was useless to ask you again so will end further requests. I also had one further service. she also sends her kindness in regards to you and asked why you did not write. Please write her and let her know I will write Monday again. "When you write, write me care of Sherriff - I don’t think he will read them. "He has not opened any of my letters for a long time and if he should that would be better than not to get them so long after they’re written. I will kiss you both good night - write often your loving Ben/ f**k it is raining hard at this time." James autographs the letter as 'Ben', a protective alias that he used when writing to his loved ones. The single page letter, with text on both sides, measures 203 by 126mm, with fold creases and bleeding of ink in some sections. A remarkable piece of history, which offers a personal insight into one of the Old West's most legendary figures. About Frank James: Frank James (1843 – 1915) was a U.S Civil War Confederate guerrilla and notorious Old West outlaw. Together with his younger brother Jesse James...

This is a handsome collage of two signed and inscribed photographs of George H. W. Bush and Barbara Bush. Both photographs are inscribed to the same rec...

This is Helen Keller’s personal reading copy of The New Outlook for the Blind, December 1960, Volume 54, Number 10. The periodical is inscribed in the upp...

This amazing piece of U.S. Naval history features signed items from all four World War II Navy Admirals to ever wear the five-star rank. All are cons...

A fascinating four page manuscript of sketches by one of the most significant French artists of the 20th century, Paul Signac. This four page manuscript features a series of penci...

One of the original ephemeral Pop Art events of the 1960s, Claes Oldenburg's "Gayety" happening, is documented with this rare poster advertisement, and including a mimeo list of deta...

In the Night Garden is a BBC children’s show that is shown in 35 countries around the world and has a string of merchandise attached. The show has been described as the BBC's "bigges...

- A Marilyn Monroe 1950 Autographed Magazine Cut-Out, attractively framed with UV-filtering archival glass Marilyn Monroe (1926-1962) is regarded as the most iconic female star th...

- A list of Victoria Cross recipients signed by Gurkha officer Rambahadur Limbu Nepalese Rambahadur Limbu (1939-) rose to the rank of Captain, as a Q...

- A large dinner menu measuring approximately 8" x 12" for 'Larkins Restaurant' Tralee, Ireland neatly signed by Neil Armstrong in black pen. Armstro...

This 1966 nautical portrait is of the clipper ship "Sweepstakes". Originally intended as a menu cover for Pan Am Airlines, this piece has never been used and is in pristine condition...

This is a highly desirable hanging wall map of the "World at One View", published in 1847 by Ensign and Thayer, New York. This pictorial map was printed as a broadside and features...

The novelist Harry Patterson (1929-) is most famous under his pen name Jack Higgins. The Eagle Has Landed is his best known book, selling 10 million copies worldwide, and was made in...

- Satirical illustration from EH Shepard for a 1936 edition of Punch magazine - Original artwork signed by the Winnie the Pooh artist - Originates fro...

- A certificate of recognition awarded to a Cuban social worker in 2001 - Featuring a fine signature from Fidel Castro Fidel Castro (1926 – 2016) wa...

Pair of original printed photos by Harold E. Hatch (Born October/1886-Died November/1973). He worked around Danville, VT in the late 19th and early 20th c. His photos were contact pr...

- Photograph album of Sir Oliver Leese, 3rd Baronet, KCB, CBE, DSO - British general and commander of the Eighth Army - Contains 200 photographs cha...