Gray Letters 1859 07 01

The image depicts a handwritten letter dated July 1, 1859, from Mr. Crocker to Mr. Gray. The letter is written on lined paper with blue margins, typical of 19th-century correspondence. The writing is composed in cursive script, displaying neatly formed letters and demonstrating the formal style of the period. It begins with “Mr. Samuel C. Gray” and later “Dr. Sir” addressing the recipient, followed by the narrative content. The letter discusses changes happening at a military post, as noted by references to artillery and infantry adjustments. There is a mention of a potential impact on the local community due to these troop movements. A sense of painstaking attention to detail is evident, reflecting the importance of the communication being shared. The paper condition appears aged, with slight discoloration and folds, suggesting the document's historical usage and preservation.

The image depicts a handwritten letter dated July 1, 1859, from Mr. Crocker to Mr. Gray. The letter is written on lined paper with blue margins, typical of 19th-century correspondence. The writing is composed in cursive script, displaying neatly formed letters and demonstrating the formal style of the period. It begins with “Mr. Samuel C. Gray” and later “Dr. Sir” addressing the recipient, followed by the narrative content. The letter discusses changes happening at a military post, as noted by references to artillery and infantry adjustments. There is a mention of a potential impact on the local community due to these troop movements. A sense of painstaking attention to detail is evident, reflecting the importance of the communication being shared. The paper condition appears aged, with slight discoloration and folds, suggesting the document's historical usage and preservation.

Name/Title

Gray Letters 1859 07 01

Entry/Object ID

2024.10.1.81

Description

This is a letter from Edward Crocker in Benicia to Samuel C Gray dated 07/01/1859. Mr. Crocker mentions the changes at the Benicia Military Post. Col. Merchant is going to San Francisco and will be replaced by Col. Hoffman. The 6th Infantry will then be posted to Benicia. This leads to other consequences such as the old band "Saur Crout" leaving. (Capt. Callender of the Ordnance Department remains in Benicia.) Mr. Crocker has further news about a City Ledger from 1858 that in his last letter he said was found in the ditch. Since then it has been examined and a $5,000 deficit was found in the Marshall's account, $1,800 in water lot sales, and about $1,200 more has been received for licenses than had been recorded. (note: The Marshall, Luke Bond, eventually left Benicia with at least $5,000 and sailed to Hawaii where he was being chased.)

Collection

Benicia Historical Museum Collection

Letter Details

Letter Date

Jul 1, 1859