1912 "Highways and Byways in Sussex" Red Full Leather Prize Binding Book

Written In English 

This edition of Highways and Byways in Sussex, by E. V. Lucas with illustrations by Frederick L. Griggs, was published in 1912 by Macmillan & Co. Ltd. in London. Part of the popular “Highways and Byways” series, the book offers a literary and topographical tour of Sussex, blending historical anecdotes, local legends, and vivid descriptions of the county’s towns, villages, and countryside. E. V. Lucas (1868–1938) was a noted essayist and travel writer who excelled at capturing the spirit of place, while Frederick L. Griggs’s black-and-white illustrations provide atmospheric depictions of landmarks and rural scenes. These travel volumes arose during the late Victorian and Edwardian eras, a time when there was growing enthusiasm for domestic tourism and a romantic appreciation of England’s regional identities. By weaving together historical notes, folklore, and personal observation, Lucas presented Sussex as a patchwork of landscapes and traditions—encouraging readers to explore and appreciate the county’s heritage.

The book was written at a moment when increasing railway access and leisure time enabled more people to travel within Britain for pleasure. Publishers recognized this trend and responded with guidebooks that not only offered practical information but also engaged the imagination. Lucas’s style—literary, observant, and gently humorous—catered to an audience seeking more than just a list of facts; it provided a deeper connection to the places visited. His portrayal of Sussex reflects the era’s fascination with rural charm and historic continuity, in contrast to the rapid urbanization and industrial progress of the period.

One of the most striking features of this copy is its red leather binding, which displays the gilt-stamped crest of “The Royal Drawing Society Incorporated 1902” on the front board. The spine is divided into compartments by raised or faux-raised bands, each compartment adorned with ornate gilt floral tooling. A black leather label with the title, “Highways & Byways in Sussex,” stands out amid the decorative gilt. This style of binding—often commissioned as a prize or presentation volume—reflects both the esteem in which the text was held and the tradition of awarding handsomely bound books in educational or artistic institutions. The combination of finely wrought leather and gold embossing underscores the volume’s status as an object of lasting value.

In essence, Highways and Byways in Sussex offers a leisurely journey through the region’s lanes and history, inviting readers to discover castles, manor houses, village greens, and coastal vistas. Lucas’s evocative prose, paired with Griggs’s sketches, celebrates Sussex’s sense of place and continuity. For a quick recall, remember that it is a 1912 travelogue blending local lore, history, and scenic detail, published by Macmillan, bound in an ornate red leather cover bearing the Royal Drawing Society’s crest.

Condition:

As for condition, the red leather boards remain generally well-preserved, with some minor scuffing or rubbing at the corners and along the spine edges. The gilt tooling and crest are still bright and clear, although slight fading or wear may be noticeable on the raised bands where handling is most frequent. Internally, the pages are clean, showing light toning typical of books from this period, and occasional minor foxing—particularly near illustrated plates. The hinges appear sound, indicating that the binding remains structurally stable. Overall, the book presents as a finely crafted, visually appealing piece, retaining both its practical usefulness as a travel narrative and its charm as a collectible Edwardian-era volume.