Journal of a Residence on a Georgian Plantation in 1838-1839, Frances Anne Kemble, 1863

Journal of a Residence on a Georgian Plantation in 1838–1839 is a powerful and personal account written by Frances Anne Kemble, a British actress and writer, based on her experiences while living on her then-husband’s rice and cotton plantations in the American South. First published in 1863 by Harper & Brothers in New York, the journal offers an unflinching view of slavery as witnessed firsthand during her time in Georgia.

Kemble originally penned these reflections in private letters and journals during her stay in the American South, long before the Civil War, but chose to publish them during the conflict to contribute to the anti-slavery cause. The book stands out for its emotional candor, moral clarity, and detailed observations of plantation life – particularly her growing horror at the cruelty and injustice endured by the enslaved people around her. She describes not just daily life on the plantation, but also the psychological and social structures that supported slavery, offering a rare and critical perspective from a white woman of her time.

Frances Anne Kemble is a morally complex figure – admired for her bravery and honesty, yet subject to criticism for the contradictions between her principles and her position. Her journal remains a valuable historical document, precisely because it captures the tensions and blind spots of a person caught between two worlds.. It is considered an important firsthand account that deepens our understanding of antebellum Southern society and the lived experience of slavery, while also revealing the personal transformation of a woman who became a passionate voice against the institution.

Journal of a Residence on a Georgian Plantation in 1838-1839, by Frances Anne Kemble.

Published by Harper & Brothers, Publishers, New York, 1863 first edition.

A very smart burgundy cloth hardback with gilt titles to spine.  The book has been rebound in a fine modern binding which is crisp and clean, and all soundly bound.

The text is very good throughout - bright and clean with mild age-toning. Occasional small flaw - there is one small marginal wormhole right on the edge of the text block, visible over about 8 leaves, and an occasional page corner crease.  But, overall very smart indeed.

Text in English.

337pp + 7pp Publisher's advertisements + (3) Publisher's advertisements.

Dimensions: approximately 203mm  x 135mm x 32mm.

Weight: Approximately 494g (unpacked).