Opening Hours
Daily: 10 A.M.–5 P.M.
Closed on Tuesdays
1151 Oxford Road
San Marino, CA 91108
Rare Books
Heath's Oddities
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Daily: 10 A.M.–5 P.M.
Closed on Tuesdays
1151 Oxford Road
San Marino, CA 91108
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Manuscripts
Two letters written to William Heath Davis, Jr., to New York publishing agent John Heath regarding Davis's work Sixty years in California (1889). In the first letter, dated July 6, 1889 (HM 77911), Heath replies to Davis's stated intention to visit New York and have his work "in the market" there. Heath advises Davis to talk to him before making any publishing agreements, and offers to put Davis in touch with references verifying Heath's character and credentials. The second letter, dated August 8, 1889 (HM 77912), contains Heath's reply to Davis's inquiry for ways to improve his book, which he plans to "revise & enlarge." Although Heath had not yet seen a copy of the work, he advised Davis to make it as "attractive and interesting as possible." He speculates that the greatest interest in California existed among residents of the "eastern and middle states," since he believed that emigrants from Eastern states made up most of California's population. He suggests that these readers would be more "inclined and willing to believe" Davis's statements on current conditions in California since he was not a "land grabber, nor an Emigrant Solicitor." Heath concludes by suggesting that might be able to meet with Davis should the latter visit New York. Also included with the letter are two envelopes that appear to have come from other letters.
mssHM 77911-77912
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Manuscripts
Letters sent to his sister, Anna Heath Lassiter, while serving in Virginia and North Carolina during the U.S. Civil War.
mssHM 51850-51860
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Manuscripts
The collection consists of 634 items, from 1843 to 1906; it includes manuscripts, letters, documents, receipts and newspaper clippings related to the life and business activities of William Heath Davis. Subject matter includes shipping and commerce in California before and after the Gold Rush; business firms in San Francisco and Honolulu; and land titles, with particular emphasis on Rancho San Leandro. The collection also includes manuscripts and source materials relating to Davis's memoirs. Additionally, there are items related to California and San Francisco history; various California pioneers; mining; shipping; land titles commerce; and the social manners and customs of early California residents.
mssDA
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Rare Books
257704
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Rare Books
373050