Ethel Morton at Sweetbrier Lodge by Mabell S. C. Smith
The World Syndicate Publishing Company · Books & Media > Antiquarian & Collectible

Era / Decade
1910s-1920s (Estimated)
Material
Paperbound or hardback with acidic wood-pulp paper; typical early 20th-century mass-market production.
Condition
Fair to Good. Visible foxing (spotting), yellowing/tanning of pages due to acid content, and edge wear on the left margin near the binding. No dust jacket is visible.
Demand Level
Low to Niche. There is a specific market for antique children’s series books, but this particular title is not as high-demand as Nancy Drew or The Hardy Boys.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$8.00 - $15.00 (Low-Mid-High)
Estimated Retail Value
$1.00 - $2.00 (original 1915-1920 price range)
Comparable Sales
Similar titles in the Ethel Morton series typically sell for $5 to $12 plus shipping on eBay. Copies in exceptionally clean condition with dust jackets can reach $20-$25.
Description
A vintage copy of 'Ethel Morton at Sweetbrier Lodge' by Mabell S. C. Smith, published by The World Syndicate Publishing Co. Part of the popular Ethel Morton series for girls. This edition features classic typography and is a representative example of early 20th-century children's series fiction. Ideal for collectors of vintage juvenile literature or series books.
Key Features
Series collectibility, era-specific typography, and nostalgic appeal for collectors of early 20th-century children's fiction published in Cleveland/NY.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. The typography, publisher's imprint for World Syndicate (known for reprinting series), and natural aging of the paper are consistent with early 1900s production.
Flaws to Note
Significant page browning (tanning), foxing on the title page, minor tearing/fraying on the inner binding edge, and expected shelf wear. Likely lacks the original dust jacket.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (for vintage aesthetic buyers), eBay (for book collectors), or AbeBooks (for specialized bibliophiles).
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'Antique Children's Book,' 'Series Fiction,' and '1910s Decor.' Ship via USPS Media Mail to keep costs low. Photograph the cover, title page, and any illustrations to attract collectors. Mention specifically if the binding is tight or loose.