Offered here is a two page excerpt from a travel diary, handwritten in ink, of E. Mathews of Marquette, Michigan.
Attached to the first interior page is a handwritten dedication of the diary: "To my sincere friend Alexander Gow Master of S.S. "ARAB" I dedicate this book". I do not know if this was a dedication in jest by one young friend to another or if there was actually a ship called the S.S. Arab.
The excerpt, which begins on July 15, 1902 in Marquette, Michigan, is an interesting and detailed description of train travel in the very early 20th century across the United States West. By July 18, the party has arrived near Yellowstone Park, and a detailed description of the geysers and sights at that wonderful location ensues. There are references to "Yankee Jim's Canon", stage travel to Mammoth Hot Springs Hotel, and so on.
Up in the right hand corner of the first page is a stamp in blue ink: 249 "K&T". I have no idea what this signifies but would love to hear from an eBayer who has knowledge about it. Also, each of the existing pages have stamped blue page numbers in the upper right hand corners.
The dimensions of the paper pages are 8 1/2 inches in height by 5 1/2 inches in width.
This diary is from my personal collection which I am beginning to sell off. Please read the condition description carefully and review the photographs. Unless noted otherwise in the description, the prints, art and other items that I sell are not "reproductions". For example, offered maps are of the period. I do my best to accurately describe the items being sold, but if you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact me. Please check my other listings for additional items of interest. I will combine shipping.