HAMILTON, Rev. William. Letters Concerning the Northern Coast of the County of Antrim; Containing such Circumstances as Appear Worthy of Notice Respecting the Antiquities, Manners and Customs of that Country.

Together with the Natural History of the Basaltes, and its Attendant Fossils, in the Northern Counties of Ireland. The Whole Illustrated by an Accurate Map, and Engravings of the Most Interesting Objects on the Coast. In Two Parts. Dublin: Printed by George Bonham for Pat Byrne, Grafton Street, Dublin; G. Robinson and P. Elmsly, London, 1790.

First edition. Octavo. pp. xii, 190. Contemporary folding engraved map of the north of Ireland showing the basaltic districts and attendant fossils, together with folding engraved plate of the Giant’s Causeway. Bound in later half calf over marbled boards, spine gilt with morocco title label. Light age-toning throughout, occasional spotting, map and plate complete with old folds as issued. A very good copy.

One of the most important eighteenth-century books on Irish geology and natural history. Hamilton’s work is celebrated for its detailed account of the north Antrim coast, combining observations on antiquities, folklore, customs and landscape with a pioneering scientific examination of the basalt formations of the Giant’s Causeway. Written during a period of intense debate concerning the origins of basalt, Hamilton offered one of the earliest substantial Irish contributions to geological science and helped establish the volcanic theory of basaltic formation.

The folding map and engraved view of the Giant’s Causeway add considerably to the book’s appeal. Copies complete with both map and plate are increasingly difficult to locate, particularly in sound condition. An important landmark in the scientific and topographical literature of Ireland and a cornerstone work for collectors of Irish geology, natural history and Antrim history.

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