1895 New York to Park Ridge IL Postal History Letter: Japanese Trading Co Art For Sale

1895 New York to Park Ridge IL Postal History Letter: Japanese Trading Co Art

Approximately 7" by 4.5"

Description

Up for sale is a fascinating 3-page handwritten letter dated April 18, 1895, sent from a mother in New York City (stationery with header 671 East 136th Street, New York City) to her son Ned (Mrs. E. G. Anderson, Park Ridge, Illinois).

The letter includes its original envelope, complete with a 2¢ Red Washington postage stamp, a New York MAY 21 '95 postmark, and a Park Ridge, Illinois arrival backstamp.

This incredible letter details an insider look into the late 19th-century trade of Japanese antiques, art, and curiosities in America. The writer discusses the restructuring and operations of "The Japanese Trading Co.", mentioning how the firm failed but was revived by its former bookkeeper and cashier, George, alongside two other gentlemen.

• The Japanese Trading Co.: The letter notes they secured capital and opened a new store location at No. 8 East 15th St. in New York City.

• Millionaire Art Collectors: She notes their massive success, writing: "One customer a millionaire buys a thousand dollars worth at a time for his own private collection."

• Resort Towns & Expansion: She discusses George managing another highly successful store down in Asbury Park, New Jersey, and taking over another store location in Newport, Rhode Island "that the Japs had there." She mentions the popular summer crowds and excursions coming down from Plainfield to Asbury Park and Ocean Grove.

• Letter: Very good vintage condition. Written in clear, legible cursive script on lined paper. Minor fold lines and age toning as pictured.

• Envelope: Shows some wear, with a torn/ragged left edge from being opened. The postmarks and stamp remain distinct and intact.

• Date: April 18, 1895 (Postmarked May 21, 1895)

• Origin: New York City, NY

• Destination: Park Ridge, Cook County, Illinois

• Format: 3-page letter + original envelope

• Themes: 19th Century Americana, Japanese Art Trade in America, Gilded Age Collectors, Asbury Park NJ / Newport RI Resort History, Postal History.