Antique 1871 Leather HISTORY OF MASONRY Mitchell J.W. Masonic Lodge Provenance For Sale

The History of Masonry (Eleventh Edition, 1871) By J. W. Mitchell, M.D.P. Grand Master, P. G. High Priest, and P. G. Commander of MissouriHighly collectible, authentic 19th-century copy of Dr. J.W. Mitchell's monumental work, The History of Masonry. Self-published by the author in 1871 (Griffin, Georgia) and sold strictly by subscription, this Eleventh Edition remains a cornerstone volume of American Masonic literature and historical theory.Unique Historical Provenance / Internal Markings: This specific copy carries fantastic Midwestern fraternal history. The flyleaf features sharp, legible handwritten ink inscriptions tracking ownership through two distinct lodges:Lawrence E. Wilkins – New Hartford Lodge 453, Illinois (Dated July & August 1918)James D. Grib – Roosevelt Lodge 626, Davenport, IowaUnlike ordinary family inscriptions, verified lodge signatures and membership names add exceptional historical value and regional interest for fraternal collectors.Detailed Condition ReportPlease review all high-resolution photos closely, as they serve as the primary visual description of this antique book.Binding & Spine: Bound in original full leather/sheepskin with the iconic red and black gilded spine labels intact. The leather exhibits heavy drying, scuffing, and deep cracking along the spine hinges, with minor losses to the leather at the head and foot. There is visible vintage aging tape residue on the outer front and rear cover boards.Interior Pages & Text Block: The frontispiece portrait plate of Dr. Mitchell and the main title page are securely attached. Pages show heavy antique foxing (brown spotting) and age-toning typical of 1870s paper, but the text remains completely intact, fully legible, and tight to the text block. No loose or missing pages observed.Shipping & HandlingShipped securely via USPS Media Mail with tracking to ensure safe arrival.Wrapped carefully in bubble wrap and shipped in a sturdy box to prevent any further edge wear to the fragile leather binding.