How to identify a first printing
- 1895-1898: short-lived fine-press trade publisher; first editions bear the 'Way & Williams, Chicago' imprint with no 'First Edition' statement. Identify by the imprint, the dated title page, and frequently a colophon or limitation statement and decorated bindings, some designed by Frank Hazenplug and Bruce Rogers.
- Limited issues: rely on the limitation or colophon page stating the copy count as the first-issue point.
- 1898 dissolution: remaining titles and contracts transferred to Herbert S. Stone & Co.; copies bearing a later Stone imprint or a cancel title page are not the Way & Williams first issue.
Notable points & cautions
- Founded in 1895 by W. Irving Way and Chauncey L. Williams, a peer of Stone & Kimball in the 1890s Chicago aesthetic-publishing scene.
- Notable for finely designed books, including early design work by Bruce Rogers and Frank Hazenplug.
- Dissolved in 1898, with assets and contracts absorbed by Herbert S. Stone & Co.
- Its small total output makes its first editions scarce and collectible.
Imprints
First editions also appear under: Way & Williams. Each generally follows the house convention above.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if my Way & Williams book is a first edition?
Check the copyright page. 1895-1898: short-lived fine-press trade publisher; first editions bear the 'Way & Williams, Chicago' imprint with no 'First Edition' statement. Identify by the imprint, the dated title page, and frequently a colophon or limitation statement and decorated bindings, some designed by Frank Hazenplug and Bruce Rogers. Limited issues: rely on the limitation or colophon page stating the copy count as the first-issue point.
Does Way & Williams use a number line?
Limited issues: rely on the limitation or colophon page stating the copy count as the first-issue point.
Is a book-club edition a Way & Williams first edition?
No. Book-club editions reprint the text but are not the true first edition. Founded in 1895 by W. Irving Way and Chauncey L. Williams, a peer of Stone & Kimball in the 1890s Chicago aesthetic-publishing scene.
What era does this cover?
This covers Way & Williams (1895-1898). Conventions changed over time, so confirm the era of your copy.