Preliminary identification
Photo reference
2 uploaded photos
Overview
A rare, privately printed local history detailing the development and genealogy of the Overbrook Farms area in Philadelphia. This second edition, printed in November 1936, serves as a vital genealogical and architectural record of one of America's first planned railroad suburbs.
Story
In 1936, George Magee Jr. used his own family press to immortalize his neighborhood's history. This book captures the transition from Welsh colonial settlements to a prestigious Gilded Age enclave. It is a time capsule of local pride.
Maker / Origin
The Magee Press was a small, specialized family-run publishing house located right on Overbrook Avenue. George W. Magee, Jr. was not just the author but the publisher, ensuring that every detail of his community's heritage was preserved exactly as he saw it.
Condition & Value
The dust jacket is in poor condition with significant loss and tearing. The internal pages appear clean with some expected toning; the binding seems intact. The jacket damage reduces the potential value by approximately 50%. Value is driven by hyper-local interest and scarcity.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.