2009-04
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/31/2009
A historic Civil War-date Liberian ambassador's letter, 4pp. 4to., written by the fledging nation's first ambassador, Abraham Hanson, Monrovia, Liberia, Sept. 3, 1862 to his wife concerning life in Monrovia after arriving at his new assignment, in small part: "…after eleven long & weary weeks I am at the end of my journey…a thousand dangers have surrounded me…I reached Cape Palmer, in Liberia on the 16th of Aug but did not find very comfortable mode of conveyance…we cast anchor at Monrovia on Sunday the 31st…at present I am boarding at the Hotel…[Sept. 4]…I have to write by snatches. I am so much interrupted and occupied that it will be impossible…to write you that long letter…I am very much pleased with Monrovia and my reception by the Government and people of Liberia…all the forms of recognition have now been observed and I intend to hoist my nice new flag tomorrow. It is a fine flag 15 x 9 ft. as soon as I learn from our Government what my relation is to be…I will give you my views in reference to future movements…keep [the] house and furniture just as they are…the weather here is warm. I am now sweating profusely but do not feel uncomfortable from it. Though my health is good I am somewhat prostrated from my long voyage of the last 250 miles…I have had a call from Bishop Burns. He lives next door…the church is on the next lot to my boarding place…so I can get to meeting by a few steps…". Hanson was appointed as America's first ambassador to Liberia on June 8, 1863. He did not receive his credentials until Feb. 23, 1864 immediately after his arrival in Liberia. He remained at his post until July 20, 1866 when he died of disease. VG.
Click on a thumbnail above to display a larger image below
Hold down the mouse button and slide side to side to see more thumbnails(if available).
Click above for larger image.