Writing as both a historian, book collector, and clergyman, I just want to thank you once again for another delightfully informative tale of the unexpected but fascinating association and story that your recent purchase tells. Incidentally, during my seminary years in Boston, Trinity was the church I attended. Thanks heaps for your ever fascinating and informative videos !! 😇
Not just "taking the time to look " Also the experience & knowledge to realise what you have & how to research it . I'd vote for conservation of the book in it's present condition rather than any sort of restoration. The history of the book shown in the west & tear deserves to be preserved ...
After watching this and others like it, I thought I'd try to see if a set of Lord Byron's books from 1829 published by John Murray with the beautiful signature of Edward Dickinson could be traced. What I think I've found is they were owned by Emily Dickinson's father, Edward. I found a verified signature in a collections in Massachusetts that while not as neat as the ones in my books, looks very similar. Mine were signed in 1836, and I read that part of the family's library was sold at public auction in the early 20th century. I don't know if my books were his or not, but in those catalogs at Harvard, there are many books of poetry including several sets of Byron's work. More beautiful than my little set. But there, you set me to go see and that is what a little looking found. :)
I would love to see an episode explaining how book restorations are done. I know you perhaps don’t do any restoration but a collab with someone would be amazing! I am a sucker for a beautiful binding.
I think collectors who have the financial ability would benefit from buying slightly damaged (but repairable) books, then spend what they can to have it repaired. Many public and university libraries have older books in not so good condition, and one question that always stuck in my head was: "Will the public and/or students ever get to enjoy a wonderfully bound book?" And perhaps this is where collectors can step in to ensure they get to experience that. Love the channel. Cheers!
@@ZonieMusic : To add to your post, I would add that as a university and historical society rare books librarian. I instituted a "Befriend a Book " program, whereby an alum or member could underwrite the restoration of a book's binding. In return, a bookplate reading, "Binding Restored Thanks To (name)", was placed in the book, which happily underwrote the the restoration of a number of precious volumes.
@@garywait3231 Interesting! If this is the Gladstone's Library Befriend a Book program, it seems their website describes that the physical bookplate is no longer being done, and that a digital credit in the book's catalogue entry is practiced instead. How long ago was your program instated, if you don't mind me asking?
I just had look up the church in Brock Hampton to see what it looks like. The Arts and Crafts style continues inside and is absolutely gorgeous. Knowing the book was used there so long ago, makes it even more special. Buying it was not a mistake after all, because the book has an amazing history. It is a gem that can hopefully be restored to its former glory.
I am a 51 year old carpenter in Seattle. I love reading but I am not “obsessed” with books. Despite the stereotypical perception one might have of me, I am drawn into your well crafted stories. I do believe that books have power beyond the words they hold. A power which guides us to the infinite stories of humanity, which is far more valuable in the end.
What a lovely find! So happy you trusted your instincts. I'll start following Mr. Tanner and hopefully see it on his Instagram feed one day, properly restored to its glory. Thank you for sharing this with us.
I love your videos, Tom. They are so informative and interesting. I love antiquarian books and I wish I had half your knowledge. You are an inspiration for those of us that love books. Thank you 🙏😊📚
I really love your videos. The fact that you are so curious to find out the story behind the books is very interesting. I bought an old book called “Old Bailey and Newgate” here in the US because it sounded like it would be interesting. I found a letter inside that had been written around the time of its publication and had to immediately look find out about the man who had written it. I discovered that he had been murdered a few years later by his neighbor who was jealous of him. There are books that contain stories and then there are books that have their own stories as well to tell. I also like that you listen to your instincts when buying a book. Some of the best books I’ve read have been ones I’ve bought because I have an inkling that I should. I believe they speak to you (not in a spooky way) and it’s your loss if you don’t listen.
TomTomTom, not only am I sitting two miles from Trinity Church, where I used to work, but I now work at an historic house where the family were involved in the Arts and Crafts movement and owned many books.. I'm going to look for Cockerell's style and ask the collections manager to help me confirm. The family traveled and lived in England, and I'm excited to see if they have his work on the shelves. Thanks for this chance to explore there anew!
Thank you for the beautiful story and showing the endearing characteristics of this book! I am not sure I would restore it beyond ensuring longevity. Books are there to be used and you have historic validation of value by devout people handling the book! (I myself would certainly not handle such historically valuable books without very clean gloves, though.)
I found your channel the other day and binged watched your videos as I find them really interesting and your delivery is so soothing. I have collected books all of my adult life but 99% modern ones. My claim to fame is that I have every book Sir terry Pratchett wrote, a lot of them are signed. I'd have loved to have done at your age what you are doing. Keep up the good work.
Great. I looked up the bookbinder Cockerell and his fantastic work, then I watched a video about bookbinding in this particular way, and now I have a project: learn how to bind books and decorate them like this one, with gold leaf, and do all the Terry Prachett discworld books like that. Cos the way they are, old and new, don't appeal to me. But the content is far better than LOTR
A similar story appeared in the news here in Australia this morning (ABC, 23 Sep. 2024) reminding us that even unassuming and commonplace books can have so much interesting history surrounding them. A scuffed notebook was found among many other curios, after being accidently donated to a second-hand shop following a family death. The shop looked at it briefly, noting that it was unmarked and at first glance, unexciting, but after opening it, realised its value. They found that it was a 1957 diary of a David Johns, an Antarctic expeditioner. Now, not only was it a compelling personal journal, but it had scientific and historical value too (being written during the height of Cold War and the International Geophysical Year). Two years on, they are now looking into donating it to the National Museum of Australia. Such a normal looking book turned out to be carrying such an important history and also intriguing scientific insight, just like how this book turned out to be part of such an interesting story.
I love how in the UK, so much history is documented and one can find out things fairy easily. Back in my country, I can't even find a picture of the house that was torn down in the 80ties to make way of the new house I'm in, in the historic centre of the city.
Very interesting, thankyou. What a great profession bookbinding is, such a beautiful way of presenting the great works of humanity, many to the the glory of God.
I love arts and crafts and its history. This was a joy for me to watch. So glad the book can be repaired. Is the damage to the binding from use? Is some of the page damage also from storage? The robber barons often threw insane weddings for their offspring here in the USA. That church is exquisite, just so beautiful. Wonderful story. I think you did very well!
Little (not at all) did I imagine you were headed with your story to within 2 miles of where I'm sitting, Trinity Church in Boston, where I used to work. I'm moved at how your research and this book tie together so many people, places, and things. Yes, please do share the restored book if you can!
Was Douglaps Cockerell anything to do with the Cockerell Press? My mother gave me a love for old books. I am lucky enough to own a few. I love arts & crafts books & their bindings ❤ threy are some of the best examples of arts & crafts srt.
What a great tale. Please update us when it has been repaired. I'm now invested in the story!
Writing as both a historian, book collector, and clergyman, I just want to thank you once again for another delightfully informative tale of the unexpected but fascinating association and story that your recent purchase tells.
Incidentally, during my seminary years in Boston, Trinity was the church I attended.
Thanks heaps for your ever fascinating and informative videos !! 😇
From a damaged impulse buy to a wonderful history about the book.
I love how you invest in the story of a book more than the face value of a book. It's like getting a lesson in forgotten history. Thank you.
Absolutely love your research … and love the passion of the books …. This book looks like an amazing addition to any collection …
Not just "taking the time to look "
Also the experience & knowledge to realise what you have & how to research it .
I'd vote for conservation of the book in it's present condition rather than any sort of restoration.
The history of the book shown in the west & tear deserves to be preserved ...
After watching this and others like it, I thought I'd try to see if a set of Lord Byron's books from 1829 published by John Murray with the beautiful signature of Edward Dickinson could be traced. What I think I've found is they were owned by Emily Dickinson's father, Edward. I found a verified signature in a collections in Massachusetts that while not as neat as the ones in my books, looks very similar. Mine were signed in 1836, and I read that part of the family's library was sold at public auction in the early 20th century. I don't know if my books were his or not, but in those catalogs at Harvard, there are many books of poetry including several sets of Byron's work. More beautiful than my little set. But there, you set me to go see and that is what a little looking found. :)
This story gave me goosebumps. I love that the book and its history will live on.
Wonderful story. Having grown up with the BCP, I'd love see it.
Nice story.
Have you ever watched black books ?
I would love to see an episode explaining how book restorations are done. I know you perhaps don’t do any restoration but a collab with someone would be amazing!
I am a sucker for a beautiful binding.
I think collectors who have the financial ability would benefit from buying slightly damaged (but repairable) books, then spend what they can to have it repaired. Many public and university libraries have older books in not so good condition, and one question that always stuck in my head was: "Will the public and/or students ever get to enjoy a wonderfully bound book?" And perhaps this is where collectors can step in to ensure they get to experience that. Love the channel. Cheers!
@@ZonieMusic : To add to your post, I would add that as a university and historical society rare books librarian. I instituted a "Befriend a Book " program, whereby an alum or member could underwrite the restoration of a book's binding. In return, a bookplate reading, "Binding Restored Thanks To (name)", was placed in the book, which happily underwrote the the restoration of a number of precious volumes.
@@garywait3231 Interesting! If this is the Gladstone's Library Befriend a Book program, it seems their website describes that the physical bookplate is no longer being done, and that a digital credit in the book's catalogue entry is practiced instead. How long ago was your program instated, if you don't mind me asking?
I’m loving membership. This video came out at the perfect time to watch with my morning coffee!
I just had look up the church in Brock Hampton to see what it looks like. The Arts and Crafts style continues inside and is absolutely gorgeous. Knowing the book was used there so long ago, makes it even more special. Buying it was not a mistake after all, because the book has an amazing history. It is a gem that can hopefully be restored to its former glory.
I am a 51 year old carpenter in Seattle. I love reading but I am not “obsessed” with books. Despite the stereotypical perception one might have of me, I am drawn into your well crafted stories. I do believe that books have power beyond the words they hold. A power which guides us to the infinite stories of humanity, which is far more valuable in the end.
What a lovely find! So happy you trusted your instincts. I'll start following Mr. Tanner and hopefully see it on his Instagram feed one day, properly restored to its glory. Thank you for sharing this with us.
Lovely story - thanks for sharing.
Another gen of a story. It would be amazing if the book returned to the church after its restoration ❤
I would love to see a video covering the restoration of this! Consider a collaboration with @BaumgartnerRestoration!
I love your videos, Tom. They are so informative and interesting. I love antiquarian books and I wish I had half your knowledge. You are an inspiration for those of us that love books. Thank you 🙏😊📚
I really love your videos. The fact that you are so curious to find out the story behind the books is very interesting. I bought an old book called “Old Bailey and Newgate” here in the US because it sounded like it would be interesting. I found a letter inside that had been written around the time of its publication and had to immediately look find out about the man who had written it. I discovered that he had been murdered a few years later by his neighbor who was jealous of him. There are books that contain stories and then there are books that have their own stories as well to tell.
I also like that you listen to your instincts when buying a book. Some of the best books I’ve read have been ones I’ve bought because I have an inkling that I should. I believe they speak to you (not in a spooky way) and it’s your loss if you don’t listen.
I enjoyed this video very much! I love (old) books! Thank you!❤
Good Show
Every book has it's own story. Thank you for sharing with us this one!
TomTomTom, not only am I sitting two miles from Trinity Church, where I used to work, but I now work at an historic house where the family were involved in the Arts and Crafts movement and owned many books.. I'm going to look for Cockerell's style and ask the collections manager to help me confirm. The family traveled and lived in England, and I'm excited to see if they have his work on the shelves. Thanks for this chance to explore there anew!
Keep growing puppies away from your books🐶😊
Incredible story. Your instinct and research really paid off. Congratulations.
Thank you for the beautiful story and showing the endearing characteristics of this book! I am not sure I would restore it beyond ensuring longevity. Books are there to be used and you have historic validation of value by devout people handling the book! (I myself would certainly not handle such historically valuable books without very clean gloves, though.)
Incredible find!! Thanks for sharing.
So cool! Thank you for sharing 😎🙏
I found your channel the other day and binged watched your videos as I find them really interesting and your delivery is so soothing. I have collected books all of my adult life but 99% modern ones. My claim to fame is that I have every book Sir terry Pratchett wrote, a lot of them are signed. I'd have loved to have done at your age what you are doing. Keep up the good work.
Great. I looked up the bookbinder Cockerell and his fantastic work, then I watched a video about bookbinding in this particular way, and now I have a project: learn how to bind books and decorate them like this one, with gold leaf, and do all the Terry Prachett discworld books like that. Cos the way they are, old and new, don't appeal to me. But the content is far better than LOTR
Appears to have survived a flood. Price is based on desire. Your decision was not a mistake.
You should do a video together with Ruby Granger sometime. That would be great since you both love books and a classic lifestyle!
A similar story appeared in the news here in Australia this morning (ABC, 23 Sep. 2024) reminding us that even unassuming and commonplace books can have so much interesting history surrounding them.
A scuffed notebook was found among many other curios, after being accidently donated to a second-hand shop following a family death. The shop looked at it briefly, noting that it was unmarked and at first glance, unexciting, but after opening it, realised its value. They found that it was a 1957 diary of a David Johns, an Antarctic expeditioner. Now, not only was it a compelling personal journal, but it had scientific and historical value too (being written during the height of Cold War and the International Geophysical Year). Two years on, they are now looking into donating it to the National Museum of Australia. Such a normal looking book turned out to be carrying such an important history and also intriguing scientific insight, just like how this book turned out to be part of such an interesting story.
I love how in the UK, so much history is documented and one can find out things fairy easily. Back in my country, I can't even find a picture of the house that was torn down in the 80ties to make way of the new house I'm in, in the historic centre of the city.
Very interesting, thankyou. What a great profession bookbinding is, such a beautiful way of presenting the great works of humanity, many to the the glory of God.
I love arts and crafts and its history. This was a joy for me to watch. So glad the book can be repaired. Is the damage to the binding from use? Is some of the page damage also from storage? The robber barons often threw insane weddings for their offspring here in the USA. That church is exquisite, just so beautiful. Wonderful story. I think you did very well!
Little (not at all) did I imagine you were headed with your story to within 2 miles of where I'm sitting, Trinity Church in Boston, where I used to work. I'm moved at how your research and this book tie together so many people, places, and things. Yes, please do share the restored book if you can!
Was Douglaps Cockerell anything to do with the Cockerell Press? My mother gave me a love for old books. I am lucky enough to own a few. I love arts & crafts books & their bindings ❤ threy are some of the best examples of arts & crafts srt.
Thank you so much for this most interesting history .
Please, please let us see this Book of Common Prayer once it has been repaired or restored.
So happy this channel popped up out of the blue. It’s charm could almost restore one’s faith in humanity 😊🥰 🇬🇧
Absolutely Fantastic ❤
Before i even click to watch your videos i hit the like button because i know it will be great! Thank you sir for what you do
How nice to find the history, best wishes for a successful restoration.
Very cool, I hope your friend can restore it, that would be great
Wake up honey, new Tom Ayling just dropped! Love your content, thanks for sharing
That's a wonderful story. Thank you!
I have loved that you entitled this video "I made a mistake". It doesn't seem a mistake to me.
fascinating video, as ever
Thanks fora great story
That Book needs to be back in that Church.
lol I thought u had a diddy instant 😂
❤👌🏻😊wonderful.
Outstanding story young man. Thank you kindly.