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This 1904 postal cover and letter highlight a fascinating intersection of Oregon’s commercial history and the promotion of the upcoming Lewis & Clark Centennial Exposition.
Postal Analysis
Description & Background
The envelope features a highly collectible multicolor \"advertising collar\" for the Lewis & Clark Centennial held in Portland in 1905. The graphic depicts Lewis, Clark, and a guiding figure (often identified as Liberty or Columbia) pointing toward the Pacific sunset. The cover was mailed from Ashland, Oregon, on April 4, 1904, to Mr. Charley White in Klamath Falls.
Postal Markings
Postmark: A clear circular date stamp (CDS) from ASHLAND, OREG. APR 4 3:30 PM 1904.
Stamp: A 2-cent George Washington stamp (Series of 1902).
Transcription
The letter is written on the distinctive, red-printed letterhead of Emil Peil, a prominent Ashland merchant and blacksmith.
EMIL PEILDealer InBain Wagons, Racine Buggies and Spring WagonsAgricultural Implements, Hancock Disc Plows, and Canton Plows
Ashland, Oregon, April 4, 1904
Mr. Charley WhiteKlamath Falls, Oregon
Dear Sir
Mr. Peil tells me you want to sell your ranch am looking for a stock ranch and if the price is right we might make a deal—if you want to sell let me know how much patented land you have.
How much you can irrigate and is there plenty of water for what can be irrigated. How much Hay did you cut last year and of what kind (wild hay or alfalfa). How much of it is fenced and in what manner. How deep did the snow lay last winter and about what date did it go away.
What kind of buildings have you and implements and tools. What is your lowest cash price. I am looking for a cattle ranch and you will know pretty well if what you have will fill the bill. Trusting to hear from you at once.
I am Respect YoursA. H. Brailsford
Historical Research
Emil Peil: A significant figure in Ashland\'s early development, Peil operated a large blacksmith and hardware business. His building, constructed in the late 19th century, is still a recognized historical landmark in downtown Ashland.
A. H. Brailsford: The writer of the letter was seeking a \"stock ranch\" or \"cattle ranch\" in the Klamath Basin. This inquiry reflects the era’s transition in Southern Oregon from small-scale pioneering to larger, organized agricultural and livestock operations.
The Expo Connection: Using an envelope with the Lewis & Clark Centennial graphic more than a year before the event started shows how aggressively the 1905 Exposition was marketed throughout the state to build civic pride and attendance.
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