Description
From the library of James K. Polk, the Volume X of the Register of Debates in Congress, known as the Annals of Congress, published in 1834 by Gales and Seaton.
Octavo, [3], 1391pp, xxv. Publisher’s period sheep, title in gilt on partial black morocco label. Both hinges rebuilt with matching sheep, labels on spine worn and cracking. Text block stable, but overall in delicate condition. Library stamps from the Tennessee State Library on title page and half title. Housed in custom brown leather clamshell, title in gilt on spine over black morocco label.
This copy was received by Polk in 1834, while serving as Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee. The following year, with the help of President Andrew Jackson, Rep. Polk would begin his four-year term as Speaker of the House. This copy is signed by James K. Polk on the half title.
In 1834, Joseph Gales and William Seaton began collecting and commercially republishing these early summaries and newspaper reports. The first edition of this work, The Debates and Proceedings in the Congress of the United States with Appendix, was the first effort to publish the entire set of debates and records for the first Congress. In addition to collecting the previously published newspaper reports, Gales also contacted Representatives and Senators and requested their notes and speeches. Organized by session in 42 volumes, and taking 22 years to compile and publish, the Annals of Congress are recognized as the best source for coverage of Congress from 1789 to 1824. In 1849, Congress began appropriating funds to help defray costs. (Statutes and Stories, 2018)
