Library of Universal Knowledge – Vol. XII (1880) | Chambers’s Encyclopaedia | American Book Exchange | Antique Reference

Library of Universal Knowledge, Volume XII. Published New York: American Book Exchange, Tribune Building, 1880. A reprint of the 1879 Edinburgh and London edition of Chambers’s Encyclopaedia, expanded with additional material for American readers.

This volume is part of a twenty-one volume encyclopedia set and represents late 19th-century American efforts to democratize access to reference literature. Bound in original red cloth with gilt spine lettering. Includes original institutional bookplate from The Westminster Fire Engine and Hose Co. No. 1 (Westminster, Maryland), dated October 13, 1881.

An excellent decorative and historical piece — ideal for collectors of antique encyclopedias, 19th-century Americana, or institutional provenance material.

Condition:

Good antique condition. Original red cloth binding intact with moderate surface wear, scuffing, and areas of discoloration to boards. Gilt spine lettering remains legible. Hinges sound. Text block clean with light age toning and scattered foxing. Institutional bookplate affixed to front pastedown.