Poems on Various Subjects by Phillis Wheatley 1773 1st First edition of the first book by an African American Start Price USD 6,750.00 Current Price USD 6,750.00 Time Left - Bid Count 0 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Wednesday, November 19, 2008 End Time Wednesday, November 26, 2008 Location Chicago See more about 'Poems on Various Subjects by Phillis Wheatley 1773 1st ' Description Poems on Various Subjects by Phillis Wheatley 1773 1st ed First edition of the first book by an African American Poems on Various Subjects, Religious and Moral by Phillis Wheatley, Negro Servant of Mr. John Wheatley of Boston, in New England. London: printed for A. Bell, Bookseller, Aldgate; and sold by Messrs. Cox and Berry, King-Street, Boston, MDCCLXXIII. [1773]. First Edition of the first book to be published by an African American. Born around 1753 in what is the modern day Senegal, Wheatley was kidnapped and taken to America in 1761 aboard a slave ship called "Phyllis" (from which she received her name). She was purchased in Boston by a wealthy merchant named John Wheatley. Along with wife Susanna, the Wheatleys instructed her and encouraged her education, including study of foreign languages such as Latin, and history. She was also tutored by the Wheatley’s son, Nathaniel, in English, Latin, history, geography, religion, and the Bible. She wrote her first poem at the age of 12 and later when looking for a publisher for her manuscript, no one in Boston would publish her poems. It was Wheatley's son who took her to London where a family friend, the Countess of Huntington took an interest in her work and financed its publication. The following year she was given her freedom and when the Wheatley's died she entered into a marriage to a free black man. In 1784 she died in childbirth. Her planned second book was never published and has been lost.Rebound copy in full leather with gilt decorations and the initials "EJB" on the front cover. 124 pages plus contents and ad on last page. This copy is lacking the title page and the frontispiece. In addition the first 4 pages (the dedication, the preface and the a statement by John Wheatley attesting to the fact that Phillis Wheatley wrote the poems) have been encapsulated in some sort of plastic as they were in poor condition. The balance of the book, which includes all the poems, the contents and an advertisement are complete and other than some yellowing and minor foxing are in good condition. A few pages are reinforced at the top. Obviously these are important flaws but the rarity and importance of the book make it still a desirable copy. Complete it could be worth 30-45,000. A very scarce book as well as an important milestone in African American history.Free shipping and insurance for this item within the U.S. We accept PayPal, checks, money orders, Discover, Master Charge and VISA. Priority Mail is also available by request. Please note: All packages sent to U.S. addresses are insured and/or have delivery confirmation. I am responsible until the package has been delivered. Books are sent well wrapped in boxes.INTERNATIONAL SHIPPING will only be via air mail, there is no more surface mail. Postage can be quite expensive especially packages over 4 pounds. I usually will quote several rates but please realize the rates which are insurable are the most expensive. If you have a question, please ask before you bid. I would be glad to quote the postage costs. Place a Bid!