American author and journalist (1871–1900) best known for his novels Maggie: A Girl of the Streets and The Red Badge of Courage. Crane served as a war correspondent in Cuba and Greece, an experience he drew on when crafting his famous short story ‘The Open Boat.’ After taking up residence in Europe, Crane died of tuberculosis in Germany at the age of 28. Signed book: The Lanthorn Book Being a Small Collection of Tales and Verses read at The Sign o’ the Lanthorn, 126 William Street, New York. Edition Limited to 125 Copies, this being number 18. NY, 1898. Hardcover, 8.5 x 11.5, 54 pages. Signed by Crane in black ink at the conclusion of his short story The Wise Men. Also signed by authors John Langdon Heaton, Irving Bacheller, Willis Hawkins, Post Wheeler, Charles Gaines, and Charles Lewis, all of whom have signed at the end of their respective stories. Missing spine cover, the front cover and first free-end page detached but present, rounded corners of the boards, and scattered toning to the pages, otherwise very good condition. (All interior pages, including Crane’s, are fine). Of the 125 books privately published only for members of the club (this once being the property of Bacheller), it is estimated that less than 25 of the books were signed by all of the authors.
The only signed and limited edition of any Stephen Crane book, this scarce and desirable gift was the only such piece published by the Lanthorn Club. Founded in 1893, the club consisted of young journalists and aspiring writers who would gather for lunch and a Saturday evening banquet—the latter event requiring one member to read an original short story and then open himself to criticism. The highest compliment to be paid, it was said, was utter silence. Crane’s story is the first of seven pieces and occupies more than half the space in this volume. While it was the intention of the Club to have each contributor sign his piece, rare book collectors believe that fewer than 25 copies—perhaps as few as 10—were ever marked by Crane. Extremely rare in any form, with this recognized as being a very scarce example. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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