Nurseryman Charles Downing letter to Mr. Crandall regarding grapes.
Newburgh, NY: Sept. 30, 1881. Autograph letter. An autograph letter from Downing in Newburgh, NY to a Mr. Crandall recommending grape types (Morden, Brighton, Delaware, Isabella, Early Dawn, Lady Washington, Jefferson, Duchess & Quassaic). He also mentions several potential nurseries/men where Crandall can order trees from: Mr. Force; I. C Wood & Brothers in Fishkill, NY.
Charles was a brother & partner of A.J. Downing who died tragically in 1852. The brothers combined to write The Fruits and Fruit Trees of America. Charles later went on to update the edition. Both editions were groundbreaking at the time. He was regarded as one of the foremost pomologists of his day. On his death, Downing bequeathed his library of books and manuscripts to the Iowa Agricultural College Horticulture Department. His drawings and descriptions of apples and other fruits became a major source for the fruit sections of the 1903 American Horticultural Manual.
A short letter from a famous horticulturist and author.
5 1/4 x 8 1/4, 2pp, lined paper, vgc. Very good condition. Item #29076
Price: $200.00