Where Can I Read About The History Of Stamp Collecting ?

Hi,
I've been making myself a pest here lately, but having just come off a 40 year absence from the Hobby, I do have a lot of questions.

Where can I read about the history of the hobby here in the US? I'm especially interested in how the business side of the hobby worked, particularly in the 1900s. I also enjoy reading about historical anecdotes, like "Farley's Folly" which I recently read in an APS publication.

Thank you!
Mobilman44

There are many philatelic books, periodicals, magazines and articles on virtually every aspect of stamp collecting, so you can take your pick of several with a simple Google search on what topic you're interested in.

As for Farley's Follies, I'd start here at the National Postal Museum's website:

http://postalmuseum.si.edu/deliveri...tion_p2.html

Is there any book that you recommend?

In terms of anecdotes, I am a great fan of the late Herman Herst's books: particularly his Nassau Street and Stories to Collect Stamps By. Also, Stanley Bierman's two books on the World's Greatest Stamp Collectors. You can find inexpensive copies via Abe's Books if they aren't available in your local library.

I personally found this one interesting....

In the time I've been here, there have been one or two "pests," but you're definitely not one of them!

Think how many of us would have never know about this book if you hadn't asked the question.

Thank you,
Kirk

Thank you all - for the links and the authors. I had heard about Mr. Herst, and will check out ebay and the local bookstore to see what is available.
Thanks again,
Mobilman44