Historic 1839 Letter from Elisha Lee to Lawrence Washington Esq. – A Rare Glimpse into the Washington Family and Early Transportation Industry
This original 1839 letter, penned by Elisha Lee from Baltimore and addressed to Lawrence Washington, Esq., offers a fascinating glimpse into the business transactions and social connections of the American elite during the early 19th century. Lee, who would later become a key figure in the railroad industry, discusses the progress of a custom carriage being made for Washington, a member of the illustrious Washington family of Virginia.
Letter Content:
Dated June 6th, 1839, Elisha Lee writes to Lawrence Washington, informing him, \"I am now pleased to inform you that the Carriage is in quite a forward state and will be complete in all of next week say 15th inst positively.\" Lee assures Washington that \"It will be a very handsome article and I have no doubt will perfectly please yourself & family.\" This correspondence underscores the meticulous care taken in crafting luxury items for prominent clients, reflecting the status and expectations of the time.
Historical Context and Significance:
Elisha Lee (1809–1857) was deeply involved in the carriage-making trade before transitioning to a notable career in the railroad industry, particularly with the Pennsylvania Railroad. His early work in producing high-quality carriages for elite clients laid the foundation for his later success in the burgeoning field of transportation.
Lawrence Washington (1791–1875) was the grand-nephew of George Washington and a prominent figure in Virginia society. Managing the Oak Grove estate in Westmoreland County, he was part of a lineage that maintained its influence well into the 19th century. The purchase of a custom carriage from a figure like Elisha Lee highlights the interconnectedness of the Washington family with key industrial players of the era.
This letter is not merely a communication about a transaction; it is a piece of history that connects the worlds of American aristocracy and early industry. The document is a testament to the high standards of craftsmanship and the personal relationships that shaped the lives of the nation\'s most influential families.
Condition:
The letter and its accompanying envelope are in remarkable condition for their age. The handwriting is clear and legible, with only minor creases and marks typical of documents from this period. This item has been carefully preserved and is a valuable addition to any collection focused on American history, the Washington family, or early industrial [Insert dimensions]
Envelope: [Insert letter comes from a reputable collection of historical documents and has been maintained with the utmost care to preserve its authenticity and historical value.Perfect for collectors of:
- American historical documents
- Washington family memorabilia
- Early transportation and industry artifacts
Shipping & Handling:
- The item will be shipped securely with tracking and insurance.
- International shipping is available.
This is a rare opportunity to own a piece of American history that offers insight into the lives and business dealings of two significant figures of the 19th century. Please feel free to reach out with any questions or for further details.
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