This volume of The American Register contains William Shaler's 38-page account of California. It is frequently cited as the first extensive account of California published in the United States by an American. Shaler put into Spanish ports along the California coast, although visitors were prohibited by the Spanish, and illegally traded in otter skins. He apparently had to shoot his way out of California but was convinced that it should become part of America: “The conquest of this country would be absolutely nothing; it would fall without an effort to the most inconsiderable force” (p. 161). This early Manifest Destiny sentiment became a reality several decades later. His travels also brought him to Hawaii, also described here. He eventually became a respected U.S. diplomat. 583 pages though pagination is not continuous (there is a gap between pp.175-283 as issued). Hardbound in original quarter leather over marbled boards with gilt title on spine. Published by C. & A. Conrad & Company in Philadelphia.

References: Howes #S-324.

Condition: B

Untrimmed text has light toning and scattered foxing. Contents are somewhat loose with an unrelated 10-page section of poetry missing at the end of the volume (pp. 569-578). Covers are bumped and worn. Not ex-library.