George, T.H. Original Autograph Manuscript Letter Written by a Juneau Pioneer “T. H. George” and Addressed to “Friend Easton,” Talking about the Resumption of Mining Operations and the Construction of a New Mill in the Silver Bow District; also with Notes about an Early Local Mining Company “Hayward & Lane”. Juneau, Alaska: 26 February 1895.

Quarto (25,2x12,5 cm. or 7 ¾ x 9 in). 2 pp. Brown ink on yellow wove paper. Fold marks, small damp stain in the upper right corner, but otherwise a very good letter, written in a legible hand.

Historically interesting letter about early mining operations in Juneau (inc. 1900), Alaska. The author, one “T. H. George,” writes to his friend “Easton,” who apparently held a position on the U.S. Board of Honorable Commissioners. In the letter, George reports on the unusually mild winter conditions and the early revival of mining activities. He then talks about “Hayward & Lane” (aka Juneau Mining Co.), one of the first and biggest mining operators in southeast Alaska, detailing their plans to construct a thirty-stamp mill west of Juneau. Near the close, he discusses common acquaintances (Mr. Bray of Hayward & Lane) and speculates about challenging local politics, possibly the Alaska boundary dispute between the U. S. and Great Britain. Overall, historically interesting letter from the early days of Juneau.

The text of the letter:

“Your very interesting letter of the 18th – to land in due course. Should have written sooner, but nothing much of particular importance taking place at this time of the year, beside I was not here for the last mail boat. You know, of course, that I would not be surprised to hear of Richard’s having made any kind of promise in order to win, but I hardly think he will dare attempt carry it through, furthermore I don’t think the condition of the stake is such as to influence the various representatives to favor any further division of Country.  I can imagine your position with the present Board of Hon. Commissioners. I presume – is their legal light and confidential advice. This far the winter here has been exceedingly mild and all – point to an early resumption mining operations in those places cant be worked successfully in winter time. Has reported that Lane + Hayward will begin their operations by putting up a 30 stamp mill. Bray had a great opportunity with that party. I was afraid that self-esteem as some other abnormal phrenological development might cause him to loose his balance. I hope he is not out, but the fact that I have not had a letter from him for a long time tends to confirm it. E. Farrell came here about few weeks ago He went to Berners Bay to work for A. Kling. "