Willie has a party
Cambridge, Massachusetts: [publisher not identified], 1951. 8" x 10" pp. [82], including an additional [108] blank pages. Here is a lively and thoughtful documentary-style handmade book about a birthday party at the Alstead Center in New Hampshire in July of 1951. Includes 48 black and white photographs applied by adhesive, each with cheeky commentary as the birthday parties unfold for both William Lusk Webster Field, celebrating his 75th, and [his daughter] Mary. "Published / in a very limited edition / at Seven Revere Street / Cambridge, Massachusetts / September 1951" (text). Near fine with slight toning on cover; text is clean with odd page numbers added in pencil. Not in OCLC at the time of cataloging.
Informal headings include: "Dignitaries Assemble!," "Delegates Disport!," "Wine Flows Like Water!," "Staff Performs Prodigies!," "Delegates Tour Area!," Dignitaries Dine Al Fresco!," "Great Day Dawns!," and "Another Day, Another Party!" Photograph show guest arrival, swimming, present opening, poetry readings, visits to the pig pen, cooking, and relaxing on the grounds. Item #2703
William Lusk Webster Field (1876-1963) was born in Milton, Massachusetts, attended Milton Academy, and then went on to graduate from Harvard. He married Rebecca Swift Gill in 1902, they had three children together. "After leaving Harvard I devoted one year to study and travel, and then took up teaching as a profession. I organized a summer school (the Alstead School of Natural History, at Alstead Centre, N. H.), which was carried on for six years. In 1900 I joined the faculty of Milton Academy, my department being that of natural science; and I have taught there continuously ever since. [...] I have devoted my summer vacations to experimental work in biology at my New Hampshire farm." (Source: Harvard College Class of 1898 - Quindecennial Report).
Price: $750.00