Lot 279

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Description:

Beautifully Signed Letter by First Female Sociologist, Harriet Martineau

4pp of a bifolium, 3.5" x 4.5", Birmingham, September 22, no year [circa 1855-1856]. Addressed to a Mr. Bell, possibly either Charles D. or Thomas Bell, regarding the construction of cottages in Ambleside.

In full:

"Dear Mr. Bell,

I have just time to acknowledge your welcome note. I have sent on a copy of it to Mrs. Reid. I am sure all the lot-holders are truly obliged to you, for the great trouble you have taken, & the care you have bestowed on their interests. I hope to return on the 1st of October; & my first anxiety will be to visit the field, & examine the cottages. I shall be heartily sorry if I find the cottages deficient in light, or anything else. I saw Mrs. Reid at Malvern last week. She was much interested in hearing about the whole affair, & in no hurry to have her money back again, if we can safely employ it for the good of our neighborhood. I am, dear Mr. Bell, very truly yours,

H. Martineau."

Letter has flattened mail folds and light wear to the corners. Minor soiling in places, especially at the folds. Boldly signed.

The cottages mentioned in the letter were constructed on land gifted to Martineau by her friend Lady Elisabeth Jesser Reid (1789-1866), located on Eller Rigg in Ambleside. The land was gifted through the Windermere Benefit Building Society and was fit for two cottages to be built. Harriet Martineau (1802-1876) was a British female social theorist and writer, often being cited as being the first female sociologist in history. Her books and essays gained popularity and even caught the eye of a young Queen Victoria, who invited Martineau to her coronation.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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January 6, 2021 10:30 AM EST
Wilton, CT, US

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Bid Increments
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$100 $299 $20
$300 $499 $25
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $2,999 $200
$3,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 + $5,000