The Celebrated Coalheaver; or, Reminiscences of the Rev. William Huntington, S.S.
Consisting of numerous original anecdotes, letters and interesting facts, chiefly of his latter years and death, collected from authentic sources and never before published; with criticisms on his character, writings and ministry by eminent authors.
Arranged and edited by Ebenezer Hooper, one of Huntington’s most intimate friends and correspondents.
Published in London by Gadsby, 18 Bouverie Street, Fleet Street, 1871.
An uncommon original first edition, illustrated with an engraved portrait frontispiece of William Huntington.
William Huntington (1745–1813) was an influential English Calvinistic preacher and religious writer. Born into poverty, he worked as a coalheaver before entering the ministry, hence the title “The Celebrated Coalheaver.” He became minister of Providence Chapel in London and adopted the initials S.S., meaning “Sinner Saved.” Hooper’s volume combines a biographical sketch with recollections, anecdotes, correspondence and assessments of Huntington’s character, writings and ministry.
An interesting copy bearing an old ink stamp:
Grove Chapel
Camberwell Grove, S.E.5
Spine damaged with substantial loss of the backstrip and its lettering. Boards rubbed and worn, particularly at the extremities. The front board is delicate, although still attached. Text block remains firm and all leaves are intact and secure.
Leaves are evenly age-toned throughout, with occasional marks and spotting consistent with age. Old church-library stamp to the front endpaper and a small handwritten inscription present. The engraved portrait frontispiece and title page are present.
A complete reading copy of this scarce 1871 first edition, retaining its original decorated publisher’s binding but requiring careful handling because of the damaged spine and delicate front board.
Please consult photographs fully as these are part of the description