Preliminary identification
Photo reference
3 uploaded photos
Overview
A significant regional history documenting the early settlement and development of the Pennsylvania Main Line and West Philadelphia. This 1927 edition serves as a primary genealogical and architectural record of one of America's most historic suburban corridors.
Story
Dora Harvey Develin was a powerhouse of the DAR who realized the oral histories of the Main Line were vanishing. In 1927, she self-published this work to preserve the stories of the Welsh Tract and the lost township of Blockley.
Maker / Origin
Dora Harvey Develin was a prominent historian and Regent of the Merion Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution. She was a pioneer in local preservation, focusing on the 'Main Line' area before it became the modern suburban landscape we know today.
Condition & Value
The cover shows significant foxing and staining on the pastedown. There is visible adhesive residue or staining on the title page. The modern map insert is not original to the 1927 book and does not add historical value. Condition is fair to good. Local history books have a dedicated niche market.
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.