Circa 1855 – Illustrated lettersheet of the “great Suspension Bridge” at Niagara Falls with a detailed description
Niagara Falls: 1855. Unbound. This four-page letter is written on an illustrated lettersheet with no dateline of salutation however it is from “James” to his sister, “Cannah.” It features an illustration titled the “Rail Road Suspension Bridge, Niagara Falls.” No accompanying mailing envelope.
While most of the humorous letter discusses family, one section describing the suspension bridge reads in part:
“This is a view of the great Suspension Bridge, which is 1½ mile below the Falls. It is suspended by wire cables 245 foot above the river, and will support 7,000 tons.
“It contains 2 tracks, one above the other. The upper one is for the cars to cross upon, and the lower for carriages & foot passengers; weight of the structure is 1000 tons: is 900 feet long, & 24 wide. Total length of the wires used in constructing the bridge, over 4,000 miles: cost, about 400,000 dollars. It is a noble structure & well worth a journey to see.
“As to the Falls, I will not attempt to describe them: indeed language as poor as mine cannot, but when I see you will tell what I can about them. I have a map of the Falls, & the river for 5 or 6 miles above & below, with all the adjoining curiosities. . ..”
. Very good. Item #010798An uncommon Niagara Falls illustrated lettersheet..
Price: $150.00