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 Thursday, December 17, 2009

March 30, 1842: Grisi - Grisettes

At the English bankers Ferrere Lafitte & Co. and several hours selecting books for a small french library, find a many cheap and common editions. Reprices much lower than English books. Dined at Meurices. In the evening at the Italian opera, Lucrezia di Borgia and benefit of Mario, Grisi in the Lucrezia, broke down in the 2nd act. An uproar and apology - the prima donna enceinte and far advanced, a laughable affair.

Mario the Caro arnica is a fine looking man and is envied no doubt by more than one "dame de haute parage" Grisi's talents overcome everything, for she got through the remainder of the opera in a very indifferent manner and received immense applause -