The Quaritch Connection: A Conversation with London Booksellers at Bernard Quaritch Ltd. About Their Titanic Connection, and the Rare Book Trade Today
Shortly before his death with the sinking of the R.M.S. Titanic, Harry Elkins Widener visited the shop of Bernard Alfred Quaritch in London. The business continues to operate today and holds fascinating records of the Widener family’s patronage so many years ago—as well as communications between Dr. A.S.W. Rosenbach and Bernard Alfred Quaritchas news of the maritime disaster became known. In this episode of The Rosenbach Podcast, we will engage members of Quaritch’s expert staff today to learn about the company’sTitanic connections before turning to conversations about the state of the rare book trade today.
Visit Bernard Quaritch Ltd. to learn more about the company today…and view books they currently have for sale!
Bernard Alfred Quaritch (1871-1913), autograph letter signed to A.S.W. Rosenbach. London, 26 April 1912. Rosenbach call number RCo:I:141:15.Bernard Alfred Quartich (1871-1913). Courtesy of Bernard Quaritch Ltd.Bernard Quaritch (1819-1899). Courtesy of Bernard Quaritch Ltd.
A.S.W. Rosenbach, autograph letter signed to Bernard Alfred Quaritch, making a formal introduction of Harry Elkins Widener, July 11, 1907. Courtesy of Bernard Quaritch Ltd. Photo by Alex Ames, February, 2020.
Harry Elkins Widener, autograph letter signed to Bernard Alfred Quaritch, December 10, 1911 (front). Courtesy of Bernard Quaritch Ltd. Photo by Alex Ames, February, 2020.
Harry Elkins Widener, autograph letter signed to Bernard Alfred Quaritch, December 10, 1911 (verso). Courtesy of Bernard Quaritch Ltd. Photo by Alex Ames, February, 2020.
Telegram sent by Eleanor Elkins Widener to Quartich booksellers in London following Harry Elkins Widener’s death onboard the R.M.S. Titanic, informing Quaritch to purchase all of the books her deceased son had wanted to buy at auction. Courtesy of Bernard Quaritch Ltd. Photo by Alex Ames, February, 2020.
Telegram sent by Harry Elkins Widener’s uncle Joseph A. Widener to Quaritch, instructing the bookseller to purchase all of Harry’s order “removing limits” on prices. Courtesy of Bernard Quaritch Ltd. Photo by Alex Ames, February, 2020.
