Ferns: Illustrations and Descriptions of All Known Species in New England and Middle-Atlantic States (inscribed)
N.P., 1948. First edition. Softcover. Revised edition, 1948. Publisher unclear; perhaps self-published or in association with the American Museum of Natural History. Inscribed on the front free endpaper: "Inscribed with pleasure for Beverly Keith with the hope that she will enjoy her trips afield and that ferns will be one of her hobbies. Farida Wiley." Uncommon or scarce signed, and a scarce volume in general in this edition or the first edition, with no copies of either available as of this writing (all we can find is the 1973 Dover edition). An early guide to ferns with illustration by the author, Donald D. Jonhston, and SuZan Swain [sic]. Farida Wiley was a prominent naturalist who worked for the American Museum of Natural History and was well-known for leading nature and bird walks in Central Park (see her New York Times obit). She was something of a media darling--the New Yorker profiled her five times. Self-taught, she rose to become the museum's Director of Field and Laboratory Courses in Natural Science and was awarded the museum's Silver Medal for over 50 years of service as a naturalist and teacher. In edition to this popular guide to ferns, she also edited the museum's American Naturalist book series and served as the secretary for the John Burroughs Association. An oblong duodecimo in texture orange synthetic wraps, perfect bound; fibrous endpapers. 105 pages, index and glossary at rear. Very good with some minor soiling to spine and one very small tear to mid-spine at the rear edge. A handsome and handy pocket guide from an early woman naturalist. Very good. Item #2173
Price: $275.00 save 5% $261.25