Smith's Illustrated Astronomy

Asa Smith, the Principal of a New York City public school, felt there was a need for an introductory astronomy textbook both affordable and accessible to "common readers" who may lack the mathematical background presumed by more sophisticated options. Smith's goal was to "present all distinguishing principles in physical Astronomy with as few words as possible; but with such ocular demonstrations, by way of diagrams and maps, as shall make the subject easily understood." The woodcut diagrams that face the Q&A-style lessons were drawn on the blocks by Smith himself, and then engraved, and he felt these "ocular demonstrations... shall make the subject easily understood." Interest in astronomy had grown in the United States in the years leading up to 1848, when the first edition appeared. This copy is the 4th edition (New York, 1849), but Smith's successful work would be reprinted and put to use in schools for nearly two decades.