The Portuguese have been visitors to Newfoundland for centuries. Some historians have even argued that their arrival along the Grand Banks predates that of John Cabot. Ambitious explorers like Gaspar Corte Real – whose statue can be seen in front of the Confederation Building in St. John’s – explored the region even before the arrival of Jacques Cartier. Drawn, like their European rivals, to the abundance of cod, fishers of the “White Fleet” have long been familiar to their hosts on the island.

Stampless folded letter, Newfoundland to Portugal (1826)

The attraction of the saltfish trade brought extensive commerce, as illustrated by this letter, dated 6 Oct 1826 and written from St. John’s. In it, the writer discusses various business matters, which are faring “worse than we expected” particularly as “the weather has been so very unfavourable.” He goes on to discuss further shipments of cargo and related financial arrangements.

First page of letter

The outer wrapper bears a “160” rate marking and an oval “Barra Do Porto” handstamp. The manuscript notation at the lower left indicates the letter was sent via the ship “Velocity.”

Typical folds and filing folds, contents clean and complete.

An interesting document, shedding light on an important part of Newfoundland and Canadian history.

Price – $225