Welcome to Henry's Travel Blog!
Although he kept detailed business papers, Missouri Botanical Garden founder Henry Shaw left little personal material for biographers to consider in analyzing his life. One of the few items which remain is a series of five journals. Following his retirement from the hardware business in 1840, Shaw traveled abroad and made notes, recollections, and even sketches in these small bound books. Join us as we chart Henry's journey to Europe and beyond.
 
Shaw's variable spellings, punctuation, and grammar, preserved throughout, are typical even for well-educated gentlemen in the 19th Century. Important note (4/14/09): The entries from March 11, 2009 through April 8, 2009, correspond to recently discovered text from Henry Shaw's journal. They will be posted online under the correct dates to preserve chronological accuracy.
 
   
   

Posted Online Monday, August 24, 2009

November 5, 1841: Musical Festival

Called on Mr. Kriesker - at half past eight - found him still in bed - he is invited as one of the performers to the great musical festival to take place the 7th inst. There will be a thousand performers. Called on Mr. Lingel at the palace - found him employed among the engravings as usual - made an attempt to purchase my intended library of Italian hooks - but find the book shops of Vienna not well supplied with Italian authors defer the purchase Milan or Venice.