Early mention of "Kung Fu" in english
Here's one I just added to my collection, although whether it is too far removed to be called a Chinese art is problematical.
Kenpo Karate: Law of the Fist and the Empty Hand by Ed Parker. Copyright 1960 by Iron Man Industries, Alliance, Nebraska. Hardcover.
In it, Parker claims continuity with Chinese arts and credits his teacher, William K.S. Chow with "americanizing" a Chinese style of fighting. To be fair, he also notes the Ryukyu origins of his art. Mention is made of the Indian connection and the Bodhidharma myth, as well. The techniques shown look a lot like Mitose's Kenpo Jujitsu and probably represent Parker's style in the days before he commissioned Chinese-looking "sets" for his system.
I learned a couple of interesting things from this book including the fact that "The coordination developed is such that three opponents can receive a blow at exactly the same moment." And, furthermore:"Using the many parts of the body as weapons, combined with the knowledge of maneuverability, a person with the knowledge of KENPO KARATE can be equivalent to five or more men.
This book is not an early version of Parker's Secrets of Chinese Karate but appears to be intended as a training manual with hundreds of photographic illustrations.
Be well.
jd
"Look, I'm only doing me job. I have to show you how to defend yourself against fresh fruit."
For it breeds great perfection, if the practise be harder then the use. Sir Francis Bacon
the world has a surplus of self centered sh1twh0res, so anyone who extends compassion to a stranger with sincerity is alright in my book. also people who fondle road kill. those guys is ok too. GunnedDownAtrocity