Audubon, John James (1785-1851) to Richard Harlan
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04031.01 Author/Creator: Audubon, John James (1785-1851) Place Written: St. Francisville, Louisiana Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 18 November 1829 Pagination: 3 p. : address ; 25.5 x 20.3 cm. Order a Copy
Describes his journey from Philadelphia to Louisiana and states that he was able to see his wife. Mentions birds he has been studying, particularly swallows. Also states that a friend of his has discovered new birds, which he will tell Harlan about when he can see him again. Informs that he will going to England by the 15 of January. Remarks that he will start drawing next week, both animals and plants natural to "this Magnificent Louisiana." Asks Harlan to give regards to mutual friends. Signed postscript written across page one states that he has "just now Killed a Large New Falcon, yes positively a New Species of Hawk." Goes on to describe the physical characteristics of the falcon. Addressed to Harlan in Philadelphia.
Harlan, a natural historian, was a pioneer in the study of comparative anatomy and vertebrate paleontology in the United States during the years following the War of 1812.
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