Illustrated Natural History for German Readers in the U.S.
Reubelt, Joh[ann] Ad[olph a.k.a. John Adam Reubelt]. KURZGEFASSTES HANDBUCH DER NATURGESCHICHTE. Enthaltend Wissenschaftliche und Populäre Beschreibungen von dem Menschen, den Säugethieren, Vögeln, Amphibien, Fischen, Weich-und Gliederthieren. Pottsville, Pa.: Verfasser und C.W. Günther, 1848. Octavo. 392 pages, including index. Numerous woodcut illustrations in the text. Chapter headings include English translations of animal names; the text is otherwise in German throughout. Original publisher's embossed dark brown cloth with gilt spine title. 21 x 13.5 cm. Spine ends show small tears; corners are worn; spine lettering is dull. A long split to the front joint has been inconspicuously repaired. Foxing throughout and heavy in places. Good only.
FIRST EDITION. As indicated by the title, this natural history handbook draws on scientific and popular sources to describe humans, mammals, birds, amphibians, fish, mollusks, and arthropods. The intended audience was German-speaking youth in the United States, and this American imprint was the true first and only edition of the book. John Adam Reubelt (1819-1902) was a native of Germany who emigrated to Pennsylvania, became a professor at Indiana University, and later served as a school principal in Kentucky. He also published several translations and theological essays.
