Lot #52

U. S. Grant

Description

ISLAND HOLIDAY: GRANT writes from Havana on the “great magnificence” of his lodgings and a “terrific earthquake,” and notes that “I would like to make enough to get me a house in Washington”

Handwritten letter by Grant (the signature clipped off and no long present), four pages on two adjoining sheets, the larger page 5 x 8, January 23, 1880. Grant writes from Havana, evidently during a trip related to his position as president of the Mexican Southern Railroad, to his son Jesse. In part: “Your Ma was very much pleased to receive your letter, which she did on our arrival here yesterday. We were received at the landing by the principle [sic] officials of the island and city, and conducted to the Government Palace where we are quartered in great magnificence. Next week we expect to take one of our Naval vessels and visit a few others of the West India Islands and return here in time for the steamer which passes about the 12th of Feby. for Vera Cruz, but will return in April by Galveston to Colorado where we will remain until May. You and Buck must write to us, to this place, in receipt of this. After that to the City of Mexico. We were both glad to hear you had started out as well. I hope it will continue and improve as time passes. What have you heard from your Arizona mines? Buck I hope has been fortunate enough to invest some for me when it will do well. I would like to make enough to get me a house in Washington [portion lost to clipping; resuming on the final page] terrific earthquakes here last night, the first it is said they have ever had in Havana. It frightened the people very much and your Ma & Ida were sorry that had enlisted for the journey . I have not heard that any harm was done in the city….” According to the U.S. Geologic Survey, “In January 1880, Cuba was the center of two strong earthquakes that sent severe shock waves through the town of Key West, Florida. The tremors occurred at 11 p.m. on January 22 and at 4 a.m. on the 23rd. At Buelta Abajo and San Christobal, Cuba, many buildings were thrown down and some people were killed….” In very good condition, with clipping as noted, faint staining and soiling to first page, and light handling wear. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.

Auction Info

• Auction Title:
• Dates: #337 - Ended September 17, 2008