ENGLISH BROADSIDE AUCTION NOTICE – Alnwick – A Relic of the Days of our Forefathers – 1836

Alnwick: Printed by Smith, Printer, Alnwick, February 18th, 1836.

A rare and visually striking nineteenth-century provincial printed broadside advertising the sale by auction of the remains of the celebrated “Boome Tree” near the church gates at Alnwick. The sale, conducted by T. Stamp, Auctioneer, was scheduled for Monday, February 22nd, 1836, only days after the ancient tree had reportedly fallen during storms on Ash Wednesday, 17 February 1836.

Printed in bold display typography with dramatic emphasis given to “BOOME TREE”, the broadside possesses strong visual appeal and reflects the growing nineteenth-century fascination with historical relics, antiquarian sentiment, and the preservation of local heritage. The text describes the tree as a “Relic of the Days of our Forefathers” and states that it was believed to have been planted during the reign of Edward IV, nearly four centuries earlier.

The Boome Tree was a recognised local landmark in Alnwick and later historical references identify it as a venerable ash tree standing within the wall of St Michael’s churchyard. Surviving printed material relating to the tree appears to be exceptionally rare and no institutional copy of the present broadside has been traced in the British Library, Library Hub, or WorldCat databases.

Ephemeral provincial broadsides of this nature were produced for temporary public display and survival rates are consequently low. The piece provides an evocative glimpse into early nineteenth-century local auction culture, historical memory, and attitudes towards ancient landmarks.

Condition: Printed on a single sheet. Approximate size 26.8 x 18.7 cm. Fold lines, minor creasing, and light age toning consistent with age and original use. Overall a highly attractive and well-preserved example of early Victorian provincial printing in near fine condition.

An unusual and desirable piece of Northumbrian historical ephemera with strong decorative, typographical, local historical, and institutional significance.

Why Buy from Hornseys?

Established in 1976, Hornseys specialises in rare books, signed editions, manuscripts, historical documents and works of enduring cultural importance. From our gallery in Ripon, on the edge of the Yorkshire Dales, we serve collectors, institutions and bibliophiles throughout the United Kingdom and internationally.

Our reputation is built upon careful scholarship, accurate cataloguing and a long-standing commitment to authenticity, provenance and condition. Every item we offer is selected not simply for rarity, but for its significance within the history of literature, art, politics, exploration and collecting.

Expertise and Authenticity

Each book, manuscript or historical item is thoroughly researched and professionally described. We carefully examine points of issue, bindings, dust jackets, inscriptions, provenance and bibliographical references to ensure accuracy and authenticity throughout our catalogue.

Curated Collections

Our stock is individually chosen for rarity, condition, historical importance and collector appeal. We specialise in literary first editions, children’s books, modern literature, signed and inscribed copies, Churchilliana, fine bindings, rare maps and unusual historical ephemera.

Provenance and Scholarship

We place particular importance on provenance and collecting history. Wherever possible, our cataloguing traces ownership, associations and historical context, allowing collectors to acquire objects with genuine bibliographical and historical significance.

Customer Service

We aim to provide a professional and straightforward buying experience, from detailed cataloguing and high-quality photography to secure packaging and prompt worldwide shipping. We are always happy to discuss condition, provenance or collecting advice directly with clients.

Returns Guarantee

All items are offered with an unconditional guarantee of authenticity. Purchases may be returned within fourteen days of receipt for any reason, provided items are returned in the same condition in which they were supplied. We simply request advance notice of any return.

Explore Our Collection

Discover exceptional rare books, manuscripts, signed editions and historical material at Hornseys. With nearly fifty years of experience in the trade, we continue to offer carefully curated material chosen for rarity, condition, provenance and lasting cultural importance.