Experiments and Observations on Electricty

Book

18th Century Medicine in Philadelphia

Name/Title

Description

Experiments and Observations on Electricty, Made at Philadelphia in America. London: F. Newberry, 1774. 5th ed. 4to. The fifth and most complete edition of Franklin's work on electricity, incorporating all of his research and correspondence with his English friend and co-experimenter Peter Collinson on the topic. The two had first published their experiments in 1751 and continued to revise their work in later editions. Franklin pursued his interest through 1768 (the date of the last letter printed here, after which time he was fully occupied with public affairs. He was still in England at the time of publication, acting as agent for the colonies. He left in 1775. never to return to England or scientific studies. PMM calls this "the most important scientific book of eighteenth century America.' With the ownership signature of Gother Mann on the title page. Mann (1747-1830), a graduate of the Royal Military Academy, commanded the Royal Engineers in Canada from 1785 to 1791 and from 1794 to 1804. After his return to England, he commanded the whole Corps of Engineers, and ended his career as a general and inspector general of fortifications.

Other Names and Numbers

Other Numbers

Number Type

References

Other Number

Howes F-320. Ford 318.

Condition

Overall Condition

Very Good

Date Examined

Jun 14, 2025

Notes

Complete with all seven plates (some folding) and 1/2 title. [2],v, [1],514, [16, index] pp. Contemporary gilt-chamfered calf, raised spine bands, compartments elaborate gilt, red morocco spine label, marbled endpapers, housed in custom green cloth box. Light offset from plates, minor rubbing to boards, else a very good copy.