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This is a collector's edition of "Jock of the Bushveld" by Percy Fitzpatrick, originally published in 1937 by Longmans, Green & Co. It is a hardcover book with illustrations by E. Caldwell, focusing on the adventures of a pet in the outdoor and nature setting of the South African bushveld. The book is a rare find, featuring the story of Jock and his escapades, making it a unique and valuable addition to any literature or nature enthusiast's collection.
Amazing copy, in particularly great condition throughout. Inside the front cover, you will find an interesting handwritten, heartfelt dedication from a father to his daughter, Louise, gifting this to her on her birthday, which appears to be dated January 15, 1937! He wishes her a happy birthday, and reminisces about several of her animal “pals” that have passed, which he also offers this book up as a memorial to those lost friends. This was written by quill and ink, from Penobscot Farm, in the town of Cool, California. This historical early American treasure, now known as Penobscot Ranch, still stands today, and is a popular tourist attraction for those visiting Southern California.
A brief excerpt from https://sierranevadageotourism.org/ -
Step back in time and take a walk through early California history when you visit Penobscot Ranch, a landmark in the Sierra Nevada foothills since the days of the California Gold Rush. The history of Penobscot parallels the cultural, economic, and architectural development of the American West, from the days of the Native American Indians, though the arrival of the first Mormon settlers and pioneers of the Gold Rush, and then the evolution of California’s agriculture.
Grinding stones created thousands of years ago can be found on the property from when American Indians lived here. When gold was discovered just a few miles away in 1848, Penobscot served as a way station, livery stable, and stage coach stop for weary travelers coming from all over the world to find gold. Visitors can still see the original Penobscot Public House built in 1850 where 49’ers stayed during the Gold Rush, the large pole barn built in the early 1920s, and even the original chicken coop - all with roots dating back throughout California’s rich history.
Although Penobscot Ranch holds such a distinguished place in California’s history, the 330 acre ranch still remains in active use as a working cattle ranch and private residence.
Holding this book in your hands and flipping through the pages, you feel almost transported to the past. I wonder what was life like for this little girl, living on a beautiful California ranch, during the tail end of the Great Depression? Is she still alive today? I wonder how much the ranch has changed in the last 88+ years since this book was given to her by her loving father. Anyhow…
This book would make a wonderful addition to any book lovers collection. Perfect for the history buff, especially those intrigued by early Americana. This could also be a great gift for someone that recently lost their pet and is having a difficult time grieving. Or if you’re a father that doesn’t know what to gift to their daughter that’s also a pet lover, then you can pass this book along and continue the beautiful tradition that this gentleman did with his daughter so many years ago!
