 and Hall (James) History of the Indian Tribes of North America, First Edition banner.jpg)
A remarkable and rare copy of The History of the Indian Tribes of North America – one of the most significant printed records of Native American leaders of the early 19th century – will be offered at Chiswick Auctions in the upcoming Books and Works on Paper sale on 22 August.
This impressive three-volume set, published in Philadelphia between 1837 and 1844, includes 120 hand-coloured lithographic plates and is estimated at £16,000 to £18,000.
The project was led by Thomas McKenney (1785–1859), who served as Superintendent of Indian Affairs in the United States from 1824 to 1830. Deeply aware of the threat posed by westward expansion to Native American tribes, McKenney sought to preserve their cultural identities and contributions.
He described the project as a mission to rescue and record “whatever of the aboriginal man can be rescued from the destruction which awaits his race.” He wanted these individuals to be “looked upon as human beings, having bodies and souls like ours.”
To bring his project to life, McKenney enlisted the American artist Charles Bird King, who painted portraits of tribal leaders and notable figures between 1821 and 1837. These paintings became the basis for the exquisite hand-coloured lithographs featured in the volumes. McKenney also collaborated with James Hall (1793–1868), an Illinois judge and historian who contributed detailed biographical sketches to accompany each portrait.
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McKenney (Thomas L.) & Hall (James) History of the Indian Tribes of North America, First Edition
Estimate £16,000 - £18,000
Despite the cultural and historical importance of the work, the publication was not a commercial success. Priced at $120 for the full set, subscriptions fell short of covering production costs.
Its long-term value, however, is immeasurable. In 1865, a devastating fire at the Smithsonian Institution destroyed 295 of the original 300 portraits painted by Charles Bird King. Today, the lithographs in The History of the Indian Tribes of North America remain as some of the only surviving visual records of many of the individuals depicted.
This exceptional set presents an extraordinary opportunity for collectors, historians, and bibliophiles. The three volumes offer both historical depth and artistic beauty, capturing a pivotal moment in American history and reflecting a sincere effort to preserve a culture at risk of being erased.
Few complete and well-preserved copies remain in private hands, making this offering a highlight of the summer auction calendar.
Contact our Books and Works on Paper department at books@chiswickauctions.co.uk or submit an online valuation for a complimentary and confidential appraisal.