Robert Fitzsimmons (with introduction by A. J. Drexel Biddle), "Physical Culture and Self-Defence" (originally published in Philadelphia, 1901; this edition London, Gale & Polden Ltd., 1907). Edwardian book (red card covers), 121pp plus title, contents, introduction and publisher's list of "athletic books", measuring approximately 12.1 x 18.2 x 1.3cm (4.75 x 7.15 x 0.5in). The author, Robert James "Bob" Fitzsimmons (1863-1917), born in Helston, Cornwall, became the first world boxing champion to hold titles in three divisions (Middleweight, Light-Heavyweight and Heavyweight), and is remembered for beating James John "Gentleman Jim" Corbett in the contest for the World Heavyweight title in 1897. This book consists of three parts ("Physical Culture", "Self-Defence" and "The Life and Ring Battles of Robert Fitzsimmons"), and includes several photographic illustrations "from Poses by Robert Fitzsimmons and George Dawson, Physical Instructor of the Chicago Athletic Club".
 
No dustjacket; the cover (which includes advertisements for Cadbury's Cocoa Essence, Oxo and Frank Bryan's "Champion" Boxing Gloves) is marked and discoloured with considerable age wear including areas of surface damage, indentations, wear to the edges and bumping to the corners; the paper surface of the spine is creased and split all the way along with slight loss, and the binding is somewhat weak. The front endpaper has been written on in pencil at the top; the pages are discoloured with some marks, slight bumping to the corners and wear / indentations to the edges, together with occasional slight surface damage. The book nonetheless remains complete and fully legible, and would thus make a good reading or reference copy of this scarce title.

This book has been in my family for many years, but as it is no longer required, I am offering it for sale in the hope that somebody out there would appreciate it more!

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