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, November 25, 2009

March 3, 1842: Museum Ruth

Firing of Guns at day break this morning. Learnt afterwards that it was by the democrats celebrating the anniversary of a bloodless revolution - a year ago. An extension of the franchise etc.

People in the town seemed to follow their business as usual. The museum Ruth open today. The pictures mostly by modern artists and few of merit. One that struck me most was the dying Calvin, surrounded by Beza and the senators - council of Geneva. Busy among the watchmakers purchasing, no judge of watches, somewhat embarrassed. Fine weather, leave Geneva for Lausanne tomorrow -