Rock-Climbing in the English Lake District (First Edition)

One of the most important books in the history of British rock climbing.

Jones remains an important figure in British climbing history. Along with the Abraham brothers, he was an early pioneer in developing rock climbing into a sport in its own right, rather than merely as training for Alpine mountaineering.

As with other books featuring photography by the Abraham brothers, the visual works within this volume are the subject of legend. Reportedly, it was Jones who first persuaded the brothers that bringing their heavy camera equipment on climbs would be a worthwhile endeavour.

First Edition. London: Longmans, Green, & Co., 1897. 8vo. Original blue publisher's cloth. xxv, [i], 284pp. 32 pages of publisher's advertisements at rear. Includes 30 full-page illustrations, and nine lithographic illustrated plates of the chief routes taken.

Recased retaining original dark blue publisher's cloth covers and spine strip, new endpapers. Spine lettered and ruled in gilt. Cover margins in blind. All edges uncut. Early owners inscription to first page. Very good. Binding strong and tight. Re-casing was done well. Original boards a little bumped at top corners. Some faint markings. Contents complete and in very good condition. Some spotting throughout. Some age toning to advertisement section at rear, due to inferior paper stock used. 

Provenance: From the library of Warwick H. Williams. 

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