The Entailed Hat Value Guide

Published in 1884, 'The Entailed Hat' is a cornerstone of Delmarva Peninsula regional literature written by the prominent journalist George Alfred Townsend under the pseudonym 'Gath.' This historical romance is highly collectible for its vivid, albeit romanticized, portrayal of the notorious kidnapper Patty Cannon and her criminal gang.

What Is The Entailed Hat Worth?

The typical price range for The Entailed Hat is $30 - $30 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

• The physical condition of the binding, specifically looking for shelf wear, frayed corners, or sun-fading on the spine.
• Completeness of the interior, including all original illustrations and the absence of foxing or water staining on the paper.
• Provenance or historical signatures, as copies owned by notable Maryland or Delaware figures can increase regional interest.
• The presence of any rare dust jackets, though these are exceptionally uncommon for the 1884 era.

How to Identify The Entailed Hat?

• Verify the 1884 publication date and the presence of the pseudonym 'Gath' on the title page.
• Check for the specific illustrated plates that distinguish this 'new illustrated edition' from standard text-only printings.
• Confirm the publisher's imprint, typically associated with major 19th-century American houses like Harper & Brothers.
• Look for the original decorative cloth binding often featuring gold or black stamped lettering typical of the late Victorian era.

History of The Entailed Hat

George Alfred Townsend, writing under the pseudonym 'Gath,' was a prominent American journalist and author. 'The Entailed Hat,' published in 1884, is one of his most famous works, a historical romance set in the Delmarva Peninsula. The novel delves into the legend of Patty Cannon, a notorious figure from the early 19th century known for her alleged involvement in a gang that kidnapped free blacks and runaway slaves, selling them into slavery. Townsend's narrative weaves together local folklore with historical events, offering a vivid, if romanticized, portrayal of a dark period in American history. The book became a significant work of regional literature, capturing the imagination of readers with its blend of adventure, mystery, and historical drama.