[Pennsylvania Coal Company Circular]

A mid-1850s pamphlet advertising Pennsylvania colliery services.

This fascinating circular reflects America’s tremendous industrial growth during the mid-19th century. It advertises a steady supply of coal made available by the Pennsylvania Coal Company during the 1854 season. Rates for various qualities ranging from small pea to range coal are provided, along with a brief description of the desirable ‘Pittston Coal’ and a summary of the anticipated transaction.

“The coal of the various sizes will be carefully cleaned, and screened into canal boats of 120 tons, and brought of the Delaware and Hudson Canal to tide water; from whence it will be delivered to purchasers, without previous transshipment, directly into vessels, at the Company’s principal depot at Port Ewen on the Hudson River, near Rondout Creek.”

The verso features a simple sketch map of the dock facilities, the transportation network, and local geographic features. A manuscript address indicates it was sent from Isaac A. Brooks of Providence, R.I. with the friendly note, “Mr. Mason, Perhaps this may be useful to you. – I. A. B.”

Brooks was the registered owner of a schooner, the James A. Baynard, in 1858 and presumably engaged in maritime trade.

Source.