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First image of a balloon flight in any periodical? "Peter the Wild Boy"...
First image of a balloon flight in any periodical? "Peter the Wild Boy"...
Item # 683345
February 01, 1785
THE GENTLEMAN'S MAGAZINE, London, February, 1785
* Jean-Pierre Blanchard
* 1st English Channel crossing print
* "Peter the Wild Boy"
Perhaps the most notable content is the foldout plate with various images, the largest of which is a terrific engraving of: "The Flight of M. Blanchard and Dr. Jeffries from Dover Castle" to France, as noted at the bottom of the title/contents page.
This was the very first crossing of the English Channel by balloon, and could well be the earliest image of any balloon flight to appear in any periodical. A related article with much detail on the flight is found in the January issue.
Included is an article which references the first American Episcopal bishop. There is an interesting 1 1/2 page article: "Lord Monboddo's account of Peter the Wild Boy" who was quite notable at the time.
Near the back is much on the: "Proceedings in the Present Session of Parliament" followed by: "Foreign Intelligence" which includes: "American Intelligence". It includes a report from Richmond: "His Excellency Gen. Washington arrived in this city & was received with the most heart-felt applause...".
The other full page plate called for is lacking.
Complete in 80 pages, 5 by 8 inches full title/contents page with an engraving of St. John's Gate, slightly irregular at the blank spine, nice condition.
Category: The 1600's and 1700's