From the Personal Library of Franklin D. Roosevelt at Hyde Park:

Both volumes are not only signed but bear his small bookplate

 

The books were a gift from Sara Delano’s sister, his aunt

“A Sentimental Journey Through France and Italy” is a novel by Laurence Sterne, written and first published in 1768, as Sterne was facing an illness that would soon lead to his death. In 1765, Sterne travelled through France and Italy as far south as Naples, and after returning determined to describe his travels from a sentimental point of view.

The novel was extremely popular and influential and helped establish travel writing as the dominant genre of the second half of the 18th century. Unlike prior travel accounts which stressed classical learning and objective non-personal points of view, “A Sentimental Journey” emphasized the subjective discussions of personal taste and sentiments, of manners and morals, over classical learning.

Katherine Delano Robbins Collier had re-married to Hiram Price Collier. The family affectionately called her “Aunt Kassie.” Aunt Kassie was sister to FDR’s mother, Sara Delano.

STERNE, Laurence. A Sentimental Journey through France and Italy. By Mr. Yorick. London: T. Becket, 1768. Second Edition. Two volume set, approx 15 x 9.5 cm.

Franklin D. Roosevelt’s copy of Sterne’s 18th century classic. Volume one has his full signature, “Hyde Park,” and a note in his hand noting “The very nice second edition” having been given to him as a gift “from Aunt Kassie.”

Volume two contains his initials FDR. Each volume has a small bookplate indicating his library and a catalog number. A handsome set in full later calf, some rubbing at extremities but overall quite fresh. The second edition of Sterne’s work, published the same year as the first edition.

Works of literary importance, especially one credited with popularizing travel accounts in the late 18th century, with Presidential provenance are genuinely rare on the market.