John G. Edgar's Juvenile Works

Published by Harper & Brothers
1. Boyhood of Great Men
2. Foot-Prints of Famous Men
3. History For Boys
4. Wars of the Roses
5. Sea Kings and Naval Heroes (Illustrated C. Keene and E. K. Johnson)

This set was published by Harper & Brothers over a number of years. In 1854 #1-2 were printed. This was followed by #3 in 1855, #4 in 1859 and #5 in 1863. These are Harper & Brothers first editions.

Illustrated.

Two different formats have been seen.
The first format has been seen as late as 1863. The second format has been seen as early as 1878. When the switch was made between the formats is presently unknown.

Format #1:
Cloth. Various colors. Blindstamped with embossed cover pattern. Gilt lettering and decoration on the spine. 6.75” x 4.75”.
This format was used on the first editions between 1854 and at least 1863.


Format #2:
Cloth. Various colors. Blindstamped with embossed cover design. Gilt spine lettering and colophon. 4.5” x 6.75"

This format was seen as early as 1878. The series was listed in Harper catalogues until at least 1900. It is unknown whether there is a third format or the titles were printed in this format into the 1890's.