1834 First Printing of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s “The Story Teller” (Parts I & II)

The foundational emergence of Hawthorne’s voice — published anonymously in 1834, this is where American gothic begins.

As Published in The New-England Magazine, Vol. VII (July–December 1834)

Boston: Printed and Published by J.T. Buckingham

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This rare 1834 bound volume of The New-England Magazine (Vol. VII) includes the first printed appearance of Nathaniel Hawthorne’s early short story “The Story Teller,” published anonymously in two parts on pages 352 and 392. This predates Hawthorne’s 1837 Twice-Told Tales and is considered among his earliest published works.

The volume is complete and original (aside from professional rebinding), including the title page, index, full story text, and final “Farewell” editorial dated December 1, 1834. A handwritten note on the inside board identifies Hawthorne’s contribution — long verified by scholars and bibliographers (see: BAL 7581).

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🧾 Key Features

✅ First printing of The Story Teller, Parts I & II

✅ Pages 352 and 392, published anonymously

✅ Verified in all major bibliographies (BAL 7581, Mott, Waggoner)

✅ Complete original volume — title page, index, and editorial matter

✅ Rebound in brown cloth with gilt spine titling

✅ Includes a handwritten provenance note referencing Hawthorne

Condition

Structurally sound and complete

Moderate foxing and water staining consistent with 1830s paper stock

Rebound in textured brown cloth with gilt lettering

Light shelfwear, no tears or major defects

Pages fully legible, including both story parts

Included in Photo Set:

Title page (1834, J.T. Buckingham)

Index listing "The Story Teller" (2 entries)

Page 352 & 392: Complete text of both parts

Final editorial page (Dec. 1, 1834)

Provenance note in pencil

All cover, spine, and edge views

Keywords: Nathaniel Hawthorne, First Printing, 1834 Rare Book, American Gothic Fiction, Literary First Appearance.