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American Philatelics Blog


The Cuban Lottery & Whale Bones
What can the title of this post possibly have to do with United States philatelic history? Read on, it is a fascinating tale. And I will answer the question. This is a formal Spanish business letter dated January 17, 1874, a stampless folded letter sent from Havana (Habana), Cuba. It is addressed to Sr. Dr. E. F. Carranza in New York. The letter primarily concerns financial transactions involving lottery tickets and the shipping of goods. Adressed to "C.F. Caruana Esqr, New
Jeff Abbas
Apr 253 min read


Confederate family letter - 04/06/1863
Letter to Dr. Casper C. Henkle - Care of Col Williams - 37th Va Reg - Guinea's Depot There is quite a tale found in this Confederate folded letter/cover. It is addressed to Dr. Casper C. Henkel (1835–1908), who was a prominent Confederate military surgeon from New Market, in the Shenandoah Valley. Henkle served throughout the American Civil War. He primarily served as a surgeon for the 37th Virginia Infantry within Steuart's Brigade. As the regimental surgeon (and family fri
Jeff Abbas
Apr 115 min read


US Merchant Trade in 1791
Communication regarding a lost shipment of sugar with a detailed list of current prices for goods furnished. Includes an evaluation of the cover.
Jeff Abbas
Apr 24 min read
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