Classics Of The American Shooting Field – John C. Phillips & Lewis Webb Hill – 1930 w/ Letters & Provenance

Classics Of The American Shooting Field: A Mixed Bag for the Kindly Sportsman, 1783-1926 – John C. Phillips & Lewis Webb Hill – 1930. A first edition with unique accompanying ephemera. Tipped in at front EP and FFEP are letters from Derrydale author Ben Ames Williams to Hill and from Hill to John C. Phillips (handwritten), both signed. Laid in is a photo of Hill (age 17) with some decoys on Martha’s Vineyard, acquired by Jim Cullen (see below). Additionally, laid in is a letter from Phillips to Hill about the publishing of the book, both signed. Tipped in at rear are handwritten letters from Hill and Phillips to a Mr. Crosbie, describing this as a presentation copy. In custom made linen clamshell box, with portrait (printed) of John C. Phillips adhered to left inner panel and blue leather label with silver lettering at spine. From the library of New England sporting author Jim Cullen, who published some of the authoritative writings on Lewis Webb Hill, focusing mostly on his decoy carving. A unique and rare package. Green cloth boards with gilt illustration, lettering, and accents. Cover with some fading, wear, and rubbing, most notable at corners. Internally, clean and bright. Although paper not cracked, front hinge with slightly loose feel, likely due to the items laid in over time. VG condition in NF slip case. The book is exactly as pictured. Any questions, please ask.