When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
1845 Saratoga Springs Blue Cancel - Stampless Letter describing "Water Cure" & Hudson River Steamboat Travel
This is a phenomenal "Stampless Cover" from the mid-19th century, predating the widespread use of adhesive postage stamps. It is a classic folded letter, where the paper itself was folded into its own envelope and secured with a wax seal.
The letter is a beautiful piece of social history, documenting a family trip to the famous springs of Saratoga.
Type: Stampless Folded Letter (SFL).
Postmark:Saratoga Springs, N.Y. (Circular Date Stamp).
Date: July 26, 1845.
Postal Rate:"5" (Handwritten in red). This reflects the Act of 1845 rate for a single letter sent under 300 miles.
Destination: Hyde Park, Dutchess County, New York.
Recipient:Miss Susan B. Johnston.
Cancelation: The Blue "Saratoga Springs" Cancel: Blue ink was quite common for this office during the 1840s. The strike is remarkably clear for an 1845 handstamp.
Transcription:
"Dear Susan... we got on board the John Mason for Troy which goes at the rate of 9 miles the hour... we stayed at the Troy House, had a private parlor... receive every attention that travelers can possibly have."
"Saratoga is crowded with company from all parts of the Union... we are very near the Spring... the first dinner table is so full that we had to dine at the second... the ladies take a great deal of exercise walking up and down the parlors... some sing a little."
"We took our proportions of water at the spring this morning at 6 a.m... and after breakfast came to Saratoga Lake... took a steamboat to the lower end... where an excellent sulphur spring has been discovered... they are preparing bath houses & quarters for invalids."
Historical Context:
Saratoga Springs Culture: This captures the "Golden Age" of Saratoga as the premier resort for the American elite. The mention of taking water at 6 a.m. and the crowded dining halls perfectly illustrates the 19th-century "water cure" ritual.
The "Johnston" Family: Hyde Park was home to many prominent families (including the Roosevelts later on). Correspondence to a "Miss Johnston" in Dutchess County suggests a family of significant social standing.
JA68ABOUT ELECTRO ANTIQUES
At Electro Antiques, we are dedicated to rescuing, rediscovering, and restoring this history of electronics and computing, reviving and preserving it for future generations.
We also specialize in signs, advertising, and some ephemera.
All of our items are genuine, vintage or antique items, unless they are otherwise noted as a reproduction.
We want you to be absolutely happy with your purchase.
PAYMENT
Payment must be made within three (3) calendar days of sale close.Non-paying buyer Cases are automatically opened after 7 days of non-payment.SHIPPING
We ship via USPS on most items.We only ship to confirmed U.S. addresses, or international through 's international shipment program.Please message us through the platform if any of your purchases arrive damaged, or you have any questions about our items we have listed.CUSTOMER SERVICE
Please message us through 's message system.
