ten pound island book company
Maritime List 157

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Item #40

Catalog 157
Table of Contents

Clipper Ship Sailing Cards

In 1848, prior to the discovery of gold, three ships from the east coast called at San Francisco Bay. The following year over 700 arrived. As commerce increased, speed became incredibly important, and the American clipper ship began the final phase of its development. Clipper ship sailing cards saw their greatest use in the 1850s and 1860s, as the many ship lines competed to attract freight. Their bright colors and attractive designs were aimed at catching the eye of brokers and prospective shippers. In fact, these cards are historically significant as the earliest form of multicolor business advertising in America. In maritime history, they represent the golden age of wooden sailing ship technology. Since each card refers to a specific vessel, each is also a document of specific history pertaining to that vessel, listing such information as sailing time, port of origin, and captain. It has been estimated (Siegel catalog, 1990) that only about 3000 clipper ship cards survive today, and most of those are in institutional collections. Item numbers 29 through 40 are newly-acquired cards that have not previously been on the market.

Posted May 22, 2005

DESCRIPTION- All books "8vo" or "12mo" (about the size of a standard novel) unless otherwise described. "4to" designates a larger book, up to about 12 inches tall, and "folio" a still larger book. "16mo" and "32mo" are smaller sizes, down to about 3 inches tall.

CONDITION- Books are in Good to Very Good antiquarian condition, unless stated otherwise. Ink signatures and bookplates not noted unless they significantly mar the appearance of the book.

POSTAGE- $3.50 first book, $1.50 each additional book inside U.S. Other orders will be billed.

TELEPHONE OR FAX ORDERS- Are suggested and may be left any time. For a live answer try calling between 12 and 5 daily, Mon.-Sat. When leaving a message please give the item numbers you desire and your phone number. NO RESPONSE TO A MESSAGE LEFT ON OUR MACHINE MEANS PRIOR SALE. Our telephone number is (978) 283-5299. Our fax number is (978) 283-5235.

TERMS- Cash with order preferred. MC, Visa, Paypal, check or money order accepted. $25.00 MC/Visa minimum. WE DO NOT RETAIN CREDIT CARD NUMBERS. We will ship and bill prior customers and institutions. New customers and overseas orders are requested to pay with order in U.S. dollars or upon receipt of a pro forma invoice. WE NOW ACCEPT PAYPAL.

Please remember that we are interested in purchasing old and rare books of all kinds, especially those related to ships and the sea. We hope you'll call, write, or email if you have books to sell.

Primary References used in our catalogs.

ten pound island book company

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