2008-09
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/31/2008
At date this letter written, May 20, 1875, they were soon to become developers of the famed silver and lead mines just then discovered and being developed at Pueblo, Colorado in the 1870's. To appreciate importance of this very neatly penned two page (8 ½ x 11) letter is awareness that the Guggenheim family had Swiss origins and they were initially in the embroidery and textile findings business in Philadelphia when the patriarch Meyer Guggenheim made his first venture to Colorado, soon having his sons sell that business and join him. This letter, of that exact era is a superb example of the very beginnings of their rise to world fame. Written on fancy, large multi-style printed letterhead "GUGGENHEIM & PULASKY…MANUFACTURERS AND IMPORTERS OF HAMBURG EDGINGS AND INSERTINGS / CHESTNUT ST., PHILA" with fancy trademarks and "Manufactories St. Gallen, Switzerland." This beautifully penned document is a marked "copy" and is in the handwriting of a Guggenheim employee, writer at the same date of the letter (May 20, 1875) intended to be sent to member of the Guggenheim family or possibly the company records. The printed "PHILA." address on the letter is crossed out with city "St. Gallen" inserted by pen above it. Written and signed by Daniel Guggenheim (son of Meyer) to their partner M. H. Pulaski regarding normal business matters about their factory and merchandise, etc. Also writes: "…as yet father has not said anything to Weil about arrangements. I shall let you know as soon as known. Father wishes to see how things are first before making new arrangements." Minor short tear on centerfold, otherwise exc.+. It was at that exact period in mid-1870's that Meyer counseled his sons to sell those very businesses and go West to construct a refinery (named "Philadelphia Smelter") at Pueblo, Colo. while continuing to give them advice and counsel. Daniel (1856-1930) at age 17 had been sent to Switzerland, placed in charge of the foreign branch of the embroidery business, returning to Phila. and eventually becoming among the most prominent American industrialists. With considerable important photostatic bio sketches and other details supporting importance of this letter and date it was written.
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