Searching for Frederic Riker

Finding a lost life amongst the Seven Seas

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This is what a first edition of Riker of the Seven Seas would look like without aging

     Riker of the Seven Seas was published only once (to my knowledge) in 1933 by Ray Long and Richard R. Smith, Inc. That same incorporation is listed as the copyright holder in the first editions. The book was printed by J.J. Little & Ives Company, New York.

     During my life, I've been lucky enough to come across three seperate volumes of Riker. The original copy, as I have mentioned, was purchased in a small, used bookstore in Ringgold, Georiga, USA. That copy is currently missing, most likely loaned out and never returned.

     I purchased the second copy a few years ago from another used bookstore through Amazon.com's used book option. This copy is rather worn, but still in good condition for its age.

     Finally, and most importantly, I recently purchased a copy that, as a researcher, was a gold mine. Not only is it another orignal copy, but it's actually signed by Riker himself!! The insciption reads:

This is the third copy of Riker of the Seven Seas that I have come across.  It includes the signature you see to the right.

To my good friend M.A.J Waters,
With all best wishes and may we meet again on one of the 7 Seas
Frederic H. Riker
Purser
S.S. Exeter
July 29, 1937
Mediterranean Sea

     Naturally, the signed copy is a huge find for me. Not only does it give me four more years that I can safely add to the Timeline, but it also gives me the name of another ship that Riker served on, his position aboard that ship, and the real name (according to Riker's forward, he changed all the names in the book) of someone who knew him.

     The signed volume itself is in better condition than copy #2, though it has a large stain on the cover. I purchased it through Biblio.com, a site dedicated to helping used book sellers market their volumes on the web.

     Of course, I am always looking for new copies for sale. If you have any information regarding other copies for sale or general information concerning the book and its copyright, please visit the Contact page.