A vast array of sports, games, and other diversions are detailed in the pages of this 1864 hardcover book, “The American Boys’ Book of Sports and Games”. Published by Dick and Fitzgerald of New York, this ancient book is crammed with details, drawings, and instructions, explaining the rules and parameters of dozens of endeavors to shape the minds and bodies of youngsters. Most importantly, this Civil War era publication features a section on the emerging sport of base-ball, which is cited as bidding to become in America, what cricket is to England, “the national game”. The title page is printed with the promo “Illustrated with over Six Hundred Engravings”, which include a baseball game in progress, a diagram of a baseball field with dimensions, and images of a batter, pitcher, and fielders. Other games of note are foot-ball, cricket, golf, ten-pins, and town-ball. Written on the second blank page at front, is the name of the book’s original owner, and the inscription “Christmas 1864”, suggesting this is a first edition. Given its considerable age, this antique book is a very pleasing example in EX condition, with light to moderate wear. The spine is tight, the covers boards solid, the pages supple, and the gold gilt lettering and graphics on the front cover and spine retain a great degree of integrity. Opening Bid $150.