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 Wednesday, October 7, 2009

January 1, 1842: New Years Day

Last new years day I was in Paris, and the next hope to pass in America. A clear sky, mild and sunshine - a visit from my padrona, Felicita and other compliments of the season. Going out to take my coffee at Florians was beset on every side, the Gondoliers as well as the poor make this a privileged day and every one that had the means distributed centesimi and carantani [Names of currency] as they went along.

The fine day brought out all Venice to the public square and Gardens - in the evening at the opera at the Fenice. Quite taken with the talented and beautiful prima Donna - Sig. Goldberg -