An Exposition of Views Respecting the Principal Facts, Causes & Peculiarities Involved in Spirit Manifestations, Together with Interesting Phenomenal Statements and Communications.
London: H. Bailliere, 1852. First UK Edition. Hardcover. Small octavo. 256pp. + ii advert. Original blind stamped brown cloth with gilt lettering to spine. The first UK edition of this exposition on spiritualist phenomena known as "knockings", "rappings" , "the writings" etc - first published in the US the same year and written by Adin Ballou, (1803 – 1890) an American "Practical Christian", Universalist / Unitarian minister and pacifist who founded the Hopedale Utopian Community - a Massachusetts community blending the features of a factory town with those of a religion-based commune. Sadly, Hopedale lasted for only 14 years after which it went bankrupt and was converted to a capitalist mill town, but Ballou continued living there - speaking and writing in support of his beliefs until his death in 1890. From the collection of Dr. M. H. Coleman, although not marked as such. Cloth a bit worn and spot faded, all edges and extremities chafed with a few light bumps, rear inner hinge cracked at upper end but holding firm, owner's name across title page, owner's details opposite title page, a few creased pages and spot browning - else internally clean. Overall a clean Good + copy. Item #62057
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