The Canadian Settler's Guide by TRAILL, Catharine Parr (Strickland Mrs. Traill C.P.) [1802-1899] - 1857

throughout. Pen inscription title page, a few light pencil study marks in text (minimal) A little wear on edges, one page has very small tear plus p219 has 1/2 inch triangle not effecting the illustration (on the next page) . Most of the text is clean and the whole book is readable and presentable with tight binding.

The overall condition even with issues noted is very good.

Cf TPL 3489 which records two 1857 copies, both with different collation. Their second issue is without six of the unpaged plates and port. and with a new appendix [48] at the end. We had three copies and all three are different from TPL's two. After page 218pp the variations appear.

Classic work aimed at the woman emigrating from Britain to Canada, based upon the experiences of Traill, who by this point had spent over 25 years in 'the backwoods of Canada'. The work provides practical advice on most aspects of emigration, from choosing a ship from Britain, and what luggage to bring, to the finer points of furnishing a log cabin (including how to make an easy-chair from a flour barrel) and the perils of alcohol. The practical advice for the pioneer includes tips on gardening (for food), how to prevent your home burning down, or how to handle a fire if it does arise including those who don't have water to spare ("Women, yes, weak women and children have battled against a wall of advancing fire, and with hoes and other instruments have kept it back till help could be obtained"). It also recommends that every women become an expert at knitting, not only for its use in providing clothing, but in increasing the attractiveness of the unmarried woman ("Every young woman is prized in this country according to her usefulness; and a thriving young settler will rather marry a clever, industrious girl, who has the reputation for being a good spinner and knitter, than one who has nothing but a pretty face to recommend her").

There are also several recipes to be made from many readily available food sources, including fruit, vegetables and meats.

A fascinating look at the era of expansion in North America, what was expected of the new settlers, and life in the unsettled regions of Canada.