OLD BLOCK'S SKETCH BOOK by Alonzo Delano Drawings by Charles Nahl Santa Ana, CA: The Fine Arts Press, 1947. First edition thus. A book of witty tales and observations of the California gold rush days by American humorist, miner, and pioneer town father Alonzo Delano (1806-1874). Delano had several careers before settling on writing about life among the miners under the name of "Old Block"; he had been a merchant, banker, miner, business investor, newspaper correspondent, and Wells Fargo agent. Delano authored several books that were quite popular during the late 19th century. He had a French Huguenot ancestor, Phillipe de la Noye, that was also an ancestor of American President Franklin Delano Roosevelt. Book has 15 illustrations drawn by famous German illustrator Charles Nahl (1818-1878). This is an authorized reprint of the original 1856 edition, and an interesting first-hand account of life in the Gold Rush mining camps. Blue cloth boards with pastedown facsimile of the original cover to front and gilt titles to spine. Quarto: (7" by 10-1/4"). Illustrated. 89 pages. FREE SHIPPING to USA PLEASE VIEW OUR STORE FOR MORE GREAT FIRST EDITION BOOKS THANKS! Created by Seller's Assistant Basic.