Signer of the Declaration of Independence; a physician and surgeon general of the Continental Army, he established the first free dispensary in the U. S. Signed book: Practical Education (Vol. I) by Maria and Richard Lovell Edgeworth. First American edition. NY: George F. Hopkins, 1801. Hardcover, 5.5 x 9, 344 pages. The inside front cover bears the ownership signature, “Benj:n Rush’s.” Inside front cover also bears a bookplate reading: “Brown & Stansbury, Book Binders & Sellers No. 114, Water Street, New York.” Book is housed in a custom-made blue cloth clamshell box with book-like spine, gilt-lettered title and author on black label in upper spine. In good condition, with heavy toning and foxing to inside covers and pages, a few chips and tears to opening pages, partially detached front cover, and fragile spine and binding. Covers are speckled, heavily rubbed and worn, with chipped edges and corners, and a missing portion of the upper spine. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
