Historical information

This book contains a biography of H.G. Wells by Vincent Brome and is part of Flagstaff Hill’s Pattison Collection of books which originated from the Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute. It was published by Longmans, Green & Co.

The publisher firm, Longmans, Green & Co, was originally founded in 1724 in London by Thomas Longman under the name Longman. In August of that year, he bought the two shops and goods of William Taylor and set up his publishing house there at 39 Paternoster Row. The shops were called Black Swan and Ship, and it is said that the 'ship' sign was the inspiration for Longman's Logo. After many changes of name and management, the firm was incorporated in 1926 as Longmans, Green & Co. Pty Ltd. The firm was acquired by Pearson in 1968 and was known as Pearson Longman or Pearson PLC.

Significance

The book is significant for its connection to the publisher Longmans, Green and Co., of London, a firm that has been established for over two centuries, renowned for publishing encyclopedias, dictionaries, books on English grammar, textbooks, poetry, reference books, novels, magazines and more.
The book has additional importance for its connection to the Pattison Collection, which, along with other items at Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, was originally part of the Warrnambool Mechanics' Institutes’ Collection.
The Warrnambool Mechanics’ Institute book collection has historical and social significance for its strong association with the Mechanics Institute movement and its important role in people's intellectual, cultural and social development throughout the latter part of the nineteenth century and the early twentieth century. The collection of books is a rare example of an early lending library and its significance is enhanced by the survival of an original collection of many volumes.
The Warrnambool Mechanics' Institute’s publication collection is of both local and state significance.

Physical description

H G Wells A Biography
Author: Vincent Brome
Publisher: Longmans Green & Co
Date: 1951
Inscription on spine label, and stickers. Logo of a sailing ship on the Fly page. The book is part of the Pattison Collection.

Inscriptions & markings

Label: "PAT 920 WEL"
Sticker: "Warrnambool Public Library" covered by sticker: "Corangamite Regional Library Service"
Logo: "(sailing ship drawing) above "1724", within a rounded square"