Good Manners Book: A Manual of Etiquette in Good Society (c.1870s)

Philadelphia: Porter & Coates, ca. 1870s

A lovely 19th-century etiquette manual, elegantly bound in deep blue cloth with gilt and black-stamped design. The cover bears the timeless maxim “Manners Make the Man,” surrounded by a delicate ivy motif. Published by Porter & Coates of Philadelphia, this manual offers a fascinating look into Victorian ideals of decorum and refinement.

Inside, chapters span every facet of polite society—from conversation and letter-writing to dinner parties, engagements, and the art of carriage driving. Notable sections include “The Lady’s Toilet,” “Table Etiquette,” “Etiquette in Church,” and even “Washington’s Rules of Civility.” The red-ruled text borders add a graceful touch to the crisp, lightly toned pages.

A charming and instructive volume capturing the social grace and aspiration of an era when civility was a fine art.

Rubbing to spine ends/corners. Mild age toning/wear to pages. Minor split to to cloth at bottom of back board/spine edge; binding still sound.(Note photo). Gilt bright.

Condition: Good
Size: 4” x 5”

A quintessential Victorian guide to gentility—both an attractive display piece and an engaging cultural artifact.