Letter from F. W. Bohle to Harry L. George

Letter

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St. Joseph Museums

The image depicts a handwritten letter dated December 9th, 1919, from F.W. Bohle, an engraver and die sinker from Oakland, California, to Mr. Henry L. Gage in St. Joseph, Missouri. The letter discusses the shipment of three items: a basket, a digger, and a handsupai. Bohle mentions creating digger baskets about fifteen years ago among the Digger Indians in California and notes the unique qualities of the baskets. He expresses an interest in acquiring photographs of these baskets, alongside a request for them to be included in a possible collection. The letter also conveys his willingness to pay for the photographs or a small print, showcasing Bohle's appreciation for traditional craftsmanship and his desire to preserve these cultural artifacts.

The image depicts a handwritten letter dated December 9th, 1919, from F.W. Bohle, an engraver and die sinker from Oakland, California, to Mr. Henry L. Gage in St. Joseph, Missouri. The letter discusses the shipment of three items: a basket, a digger, and a handsupai. Bohle mentions creating digger baskets about fifteen years ago among the Digger Indians in California and notes the unique qualities of the baskets. He expresses an interest in acquiring photographs of these baskets, alongside a request for them to be included in a possible collection. The letter also conveys his willingness to pay for the photographs or a small print, showcasing Bohle's appreciation for traditional craftsmanship and his desire to preserve these cultural artifacts.

Name/Title

Letter from F. W. Bohle to Harry L. George

Entry/Object ID

Q1430.634.30L

Description

A handwritten letter from F. W. Bohle to Harry L. George discussing the shipment of three baskets: Digger, Washoe and a Havasupai. Also included is a post office receipt. Vol I pg. 30L Dear Sir: Yours of Dec. 2 duly received and in reply wish to state I have just shipped the 3 requested Baskets "Digger - Washoe - Havasupai. Forwarded the Baskets by Express prepaid . I ????? the best of my Digger Basket first hand about fifteen years ago among the Digger Indians in Cal. The Washoe - Nevada - Basket is small but a fine old piece as you will notice. Never know of many Havasupai's for sale - bought 2 about ten years ago when in Arizona and have been looking for more ever since. Speaking of the "Death Valley" Indians, I can state the "Paramint" Indians made the best Baskets in that section of California. I would very much appreciate to keep a little photograph of the Quini Basket, perhaps you can photograph it some day and mail us a little print for which I would be very thankful to you indeed Should you hear of anybody interested in good old Indian Baskets - I ask you kindly to keep my collection in mind. Have not many photographs of my baskets to spare but would like to have you some if of any further interest to you and would highly appreciate to receive a photograph of your Baskets if any on hand. Thanking you for your kind consideration you have given this matter. I am yours Respectfully I AM STILL WORKING ON THIS 2/16/2026

Subject Person/Organization

Harry L. George Collection