Subject: Book collecting - Philadelphia Area Archives Search Results

Extent:: 10.5 linear foot (18 boxes) and 7 oversize box
Abstract:: The William A. Oliver, Jr. collection related to The Mystery of Edwin Drood comprises 10.5 linear feet of material plus oversize items dating from 1844 to 2005 and includes extensive bibliographic information relating to the works of Charles Dickens and specifically to the author's final novel The Mystery of Edwin Drood (1870), which was unfinished at the time of his death. The collection, which illuminates Oliver's activities as a collector and bibliographer, includes publications that printed original versions of the storyline, as well as various derivative works based on the novel; extensive bibliographies of editions of Dickens's works and scholarly work on Dickensiana, with a focus on Edwin Drood; and travel information and souvenirs from Dickens-related landmarks and events.

Held at: University of Delaware Library Special Collections [Contact Us]

Extent:: 0.2 linear feet (1 box)
Abstract:: Helen Godey Wilson (1879-1937) was an avid book collector and the granddaughter of Lewis A. Godey, publisher of Godey's Lady's Book. This collection contains an alphabetical catalog of William McFee (1881-1966) books owned by Wilson, written in her own hand, along with a letter from McFee to Wilson, a bibliographic checklist of McFee's first editions, sales lists of William McFee books from various booksellers, and a biographical sketch of McFee by Harry E. Maule. These items date roughly between 1920 and 1937.

Held at: University of Pennsylvania: Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts [Contact Us]

Extent:: 8.0 linear feet
Abstract:: This collection consists of the personal and professional papers of Philadelphia book collector A. Edward Newton (1864-1940). The bulk of the materials are book manuscripts, correspondence, keepsakes, and newspaper clippings, with published volumes cataloged separately. The collection relates to his book collecting activities and was primarily compiled by his son, E. Swift Newton, with additional material given by various donors.

Held at: Free Library of Philadelphia: Rare Book Department [Contact Us]