Educator, author, and lexicographer Noah Webster (1758–1843) published his first book, originally titled The First Part of the Grammatical Institute of the English Language, in 1783. (Two companion books, a grammar and a reader, followed in close succession.) Better known as the “Blue-Backed Speller,” the book revolutionized the teaching of American English, and its nationwide adoption in schools throughout the 19th century made it one of the best-selling volumes of all time. Webster published the first American dictionary, A Compendious Dictionary of the English Language, in 1806. Dissatisfied with the necessarily incomplete result, he soon undertook one of the most ambitious projects in the history of American letters: An American Dictionary of the English Language (1828), a work that forever changed the course of the spoken and written word in America. The penetration of Webster’s dictionary into the fabric of American language was such that, nearly two centuries later, his name remains synonymous with “dictionary” itself. Excellent ALS signed “N. Webster,” one page, 7.75 x 9.75, April 24, 1841. Webster writes to Gideon Hawley in Albany. In part: “Mr. Medfield the bearer goes to Albany with a few copies of the new edition of the American Dictionary for sale. This edition is much improved, & the typographical execution is thought to surpass any works of the kind in this kind of publication. I inclose for your reading a manuscript which I had at first intended to be addressed to the Regents of the University. But I know not that it would be becoming for me or useful to others. When I see what books are used in schools in your state, as in others, I pretty much despair of ever doing any good by my publications. I inclose a bill for the Northern Light one year….” In very good to fine condition, with intersecting mailing folds (touching signature though not affecting legibility; short edge separations, a few with tape repairs to reverse, away from text) and a touch of mild wrinkling and soiling. The writing is bold and clear throughout. R&R COA.
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