West, William

[Autograph Letter, Signed, from William West to His Sister in Boston, Discussing His Business and Washington's Birthday in New Orleans]

[New Orleans: March 2, 1832]. [3]pp. plus integral address page. Old fold lines, slight separation and wear at folds. Slight loss to edge of third page, affecting a word in five lines of text. Good. Item #4622

Brief letter written by William West to his sister in Boston, relating his business ventures in New Orleans, as well as the celebrations for George Washington's birthday. He writes: "I regret to learn the molasses wasted away but trust the barrel you will receive per ship Henry Morgan will compensate for it. The oranges was a complete failure, two thirds of them was of the first quality, I was fearfull they would not keep. The ballance of barrell was a small green Havana orange, the man guaranteed they would keep. I did not at the time think they were so sour that the sailors would not eat them. I shall not make another attempt at oranges. unless I can come with them." He continues, discussing in some detail the festivities for Washington's hundredth birthday. "The centennial anniversary of Washington was celebrated in a style I never on any occasion before witnessed, the French, Creoles, and Americans joined heart and hand to commemorate the day. In the eve there was a splendid illumination I never before witnessed so beautiful a scene."

Price: $450.00