John G. Morse from Albany, New York Train Depot 1903 *

John G. Morse, Albany, New York 1903

In the autumn of 1903, Albany stood as a vibrant center of commerce and transportation along the banks of the Hudson River. Union Station, where John G. Morse penned his note, was a hub of activity, pulsating with the constant shuffle of travelers embarking on journeys both near and far. The city itself was a testament to industrial progress, with its streets bustling with horse-drawn carriages, the clang of streetcars, and the occasional roar of an early automobile.

For John, passing through Albany was a common occurrence, a transient stop amidst his travels. The city, with its familiar sights and sounds, offered a brief respite—a pause in his journey before he continued his ventures across the railway networks of the country. The station served as a crossroads, connecting him to different corners of the nation, each journey an opportunity for business and exploration.

Union Station 1904 Albany, New York

For John and Julie, separations were customary. His frequent travels for work made his absence expected, though not less missed. The postcard was a simple glimpse into their life, a reminder of his whereabouts, and a reassurance of his thoughts reaching her, even in his absence. 

This postcard is dated October 6, 1903 and sent to his wife, Julie, in Salem, Mass., addressed as Mrs. John G. Morse. The postmark is of interest: BOS. & ALBANY, RPO (Boston & Albany Railway Post Office). It reads:

Albany October 6, 1903

My dear Julie,

Had a fine sleep. The engine broke down before we started and it was 11.35 before we got under way. (xxx) just getting in now at 6.30 only ten minutes late. Still very foggy. Hope you will get this tonight.

With Love,

Your own,

John

Robert Francis Scharff to Edward S. Morse 1918 Postcard

Irish National Museum in Dublin

The intricate script and ornate strokes on this postcard, reminiscent of a bygone era, posed quite a challenge for me to decode. After spending a considerable amount of time, I'm delighted to say that I've successfully deciphered all the words! The most challenging part was the sender's signature, as it wasn't integrated into the sentence structure, making it extremely difficult to decipher.

This postcard dated 1918 was sent by Robert Francis Scharff to Edward S. Morse with a return address of Irish National Museum in Dublin. "O.H.M.S." stands for "On His/Her Majesty's Service." It's an indication that the correspondence or item is official and sent or used in the course of government or official business. This marking was commonly used on envelopes, letters, or postcards to signify that the contents were related to governmental or official matters.

The letter is addressed to Prof. Edward S. Morse / Salem / Mass / U.S.A. It reads:

Dear Prof. Morse,

I am very grateful to you for kindly sending me reprints of two very interesting articles which show that you are just as keen and active as you were when I had the pleasure of meeting you at your hospitable house in Salem about 7 or 8 years ago. Your idea as published in this Sunday Herald is quite a novel one and appears to me very good. 

Yours truly, 

R. F. Scharff

ROBERT FRANCIS SCHARFF:

ROBERT FRANCIS SCHARFF

His tenure at the Irish National Museum in Dublin was transformative, shaping both the institution and the understanding of Ireland's natural heritage. He significantly expanded the museum's collections, particularly in herpetology, enhancing scientific knowledge about the country's reptiles and amphibians.

His advocacy for local biodiversity was evident through public engagements, exhibitions, and publications, fostering appreciation and conservation awareness among the Irish populace. Scharff's leadership cultivated an environment of collaboration among scientists from diverse fields, enriching the museum's interdisciplinary research endeavors.

Moreover, his efforts to make science accessible to the public bridged the gap between academia and the community, leaving a lasting impact on scientific literacy and conservation awareness in Ireland. Scharff's holistic approach to research, education, and preservation solidified his legacy as a pivotal figure in advancing both the museum's role and public understanding of Ireland's natural history.

THE POSTCARD:

The content of this postcard revolves around two articles Morse sent to Schaff, though without specific titles mentioned by Schaff. Consequently, my attempts were confined to mere speculation. Dated 1918, my online searches aimed to uncover articles possibly featured in the Sunday Herald, presumed to be special editions of the Boston Herald, exclusive to 1917 and 1918. Regrettably, my pursuit ended in a dead end.

I pursued an alternative approach, scouring through Morse's writings of that period. I suspect that the articles on fireflies, originally published in SCIENCE, might have been reprinted in the aforementioned Sunday Herald. Below, you'll find the full text of these "articles" as published in SCIENCE.

FIREFLIES FLASHING IN UNISON (SCIENCE Feb. 4, 1916):

February 4, 1916 SCIENCE

FIFTY years ago in Gorham, Maine, while walking along the road I passed an open field and noticed to my astonishment hundreds of fireflies flashing in perfect unison. I watched this curious sight for some time and the synchronism of the flashing was unbroken. Many times after I have watched these luminous insects, hoping to see a repetition of this phenomenon, but the flashes in every instance were intermittent. Since that time I have read about these insects in various books without meeting any allusion to this peculiar behavior. At last I have found a confirmation of my early observations. In Nature of December 9, page 414, is the report of an interesting paper read before the South London Entomological and Natural History Society by K. G. Blair entitled "Luminous Insects " in which reference is made to the remarkable synchronism of the flashes in certain European species of fireflies. The explanation offered as to the cause of this behavior seemed to me inadequate. One often notices in the stridulation of the Grillide the perfect time the insects keep in their concerts and it seems likely that the same impulse must animate these flashing beetles, and the light emitted could be more easily followed than the sound. The following is an extract from Mr. Blair's paper:

Apart from its principal function in securing the proper mating of the sexes, the light seems also to be largely used, at any rate by the males, for purposes of display. Where the powers of luminosity are largely developed in this sex the emission of the light is usually of an intermittent flashing type. It has been noticed in various parts of the world that these flashing males tend to congregate in large companies, and that all the individuals of one of these gatherings will flash in concert. All the fireflies around one tree or group of trees, for instance, will flash together, while those around a neighboring tree will be pulsating to a different time. This feature has been observed of a European species of Luciola (though Mr. Main and myself were unable to detect anything of the sort with L. italica at Lugano), of an Indian lampyrid genus not stated, and of the genus Aspidosoma in South America. The American species of Photinus and Photuris do not seem to possess the habit.

The exact reason of this flashing in concert, or the method by which it is brought about, have not been ascertained. It has been suggested that the light is not really intermittent in character, but merely appears so owing to its being alternately masked and exhibited by movements of the creature's body, and that a slight puff of wind might perhaps affect all the members of a company and cause them all to conceal their lights at once. Though this explanation of the intermittent character of the light applies well enough to Pyrophorus, an insect we shall shortly consider, it is certainly not applicable to these Lampyride. It is true the light is not absolutely extinguished between the flashes, but it is so diminished as to become practically dark; moreover the flashing in unison is too regular to be caused by chance puffs of wind. A more probable explanation of the phenomenon is that each flash exhausts the battery, as it were, and a period of recuperation is required before another flash can be emitted. It is then conceivable that the flash of a leader might act as a stimulus to the discharge of their flashes by the other members of the group, and so bring about the flashing concert by the whole company.

FIREFLIES FLASHING IN UNISON (SCIENCE Sept. 15, 1916):

In Science of February 4, 1916, page 169, I recorded for the first time an observation made fifty years ago of a large number of fireflies flashing in perfect unison. I have been on the lookout ever since that time for a confirmation of my observations, consulting every book on entomology and watching the fireflies ever since for the recurrence of this phenomenon without success. In Nature for December 9, 1915, is recorded a paper by W. Q. Blair, Esq., entitled "Luminous Insects" in which reference is made to the remarkable synchronism of the flashes in certain species of European fireflies. A somewhat extended extract is given from Mr. Blair's address. A copy of this paper was sent to my friend Professor E. B. Poulton, of Oxford, and in return he has sent me a proof sheet from a book he is editing entitled " A Naturalist in Borneo " by B. Shelford, who died a few years ago, a former assistant of Professor Poulton. I am taking the liberty of presenting an extract from this advanced page: 

On the opposite bank was a small tree growing close to the water's edge, which was covered with thousands of fire-flies, small beetles of the family Lampyridse; and I observed that the light emitted by these little creatures pulsated in a regular synchronous rhythm, so that at one moment the tree would be one blaze of light, whilst at another the light would be dim and uncertain. This concerted action of thousands of insects is very remarkable and not easy of explanation. 

Another instance of it was mentioned by Cox; certain ants that are found very frequently proceeding in columns' along the floor of the jungle, when alarmed, knock their heads against the leaves or dead sticks which they happen to be traversing; every member of a community makes the necessary movement at the same time, and as the movements are rapid a distinct loud rattling sound is heard. In this ease the action is probably a danger-signal, and we can understand — theoretically at any rate — how it was brought about. But the value to the species of the rhythmic-light pulsation of the fire-flies is not obvious, and as it is doubtful if the emission of phosphorescent light is under the control of the insect, or is merely a simple automatic process of metabolism, its synchronism is a most puzzling fact. 

Dr. Hermon 0. Bumpus wrote me that some years ago in riding from Falmouth to Woods Hole his attention was arrested by noticing in a field along the road a large number of fireflies flashing synchronously. 

FIREFLIES FLASHING IN UNISON (SCIENCE JULY 26, 1918):

JULY 26, 1918

In SCIENCE for February 4, 1916, I published a short note entitled "Fireflies Flashing in Unison" in which I gave my own observations with confirmatory notes of K. G. Blair regarding a European species. This note led to a discussion in the pages of SCIENCE in which various views were expressed; one writer throwing doubt on the correctness of my observations, another suggesting that I was deceived and the effect psychological, an other that it was the result of coincidence and still another giving confirmatory evidence of the phenomenon in question.

In SCIENCE for September 15, 1916, I was able through the courtesy of Professor E. B. Poulton of Oxford, to note the advanced pages of a book entitled, "A Naturalist in Borneo," by Mr. S. Shelford, an old student of Professor Poulton. Mr. Shelford describes vividly the synchronous flashing of fireflies he observed in Borneo. In SCIENCE for October 27, 1916, Mr. F. Alex. McDermott, who has made a special study of the light emission of American Lampyridæ,  has found no periodicity in the phenomenon. In SCIENCE for November 17, 1916, Mr. H. A. Allard says:

The synchronal flashing of fireflies appears to be a very rare phenomenon in North America. So rarely does it seem to occur that one may consider himself fortunate if he has observed the phenomenon once in a lifetime. His observations were made at Oxford, Mass. A heavy thunder storm had passed over followed by a profound calm, the air was very warm and humid; thousands of these insects were sailing low over the ground flashing incessantly as far as the eye could see. After a while a most remarkable synchronism in the flashing appeared to take place, giving one the impression of alternating waves of illumination and darkness in the distance. Though Mr. Allard had given great attention to the flashing of fireflies since these observations were made twelve years before he had never since observed this phenomenon.

In SCIENCE for September 28 , 1917, Mr. Frank C. Gates, of Carthage College, from experiments made on two specimens in a tent with a flashlight and observations made in the Philippines concludes that the synchronism in the flashing of a group of fireflies is accidental and of very rare occurrence.

Mr. Olaf O. Nylander of Caribou, Me., to whom I sent a copy of my firefly article, in a letter dated October 8 , 1916, says that a number of years ago, while walking from Caribou Mills to his home, he noticed in a small clearing the greatest assembly of fireflies that he had ever seen; the ground and stumps were fairly aglow. The flashes were not perhaps as regular as an army officer would like to see in regimental drills but were so rhythmic that any one would take note of their action. He also observed that the air was very damp at the time.

In The Scientific American of January 19, 1918 , Mr. John V Purssell, of Washington, D. C., records that "In the town of Cotabato, Island of Mindanao, P. I., a few years ago, there were two trees about the size of apple trees, and perhaps a hundred feet apart, and every evening these were filled with fire flies which flashed in synchronism, first one tree lighting up and then the other. There must have been several thousand insects in each tree, yet the synchronism was so perfect that rarely or never did a single firefly flash at the wrong time."

"To the best of my recollection the illuminated period lasted about two or three seconds and the dark period perhaps twice that long . I can positively vouch for the accuracy of the foregoing for it seemed so strange, and produced so beautiful an effect that I thought it one of the most remark able things in the Philippines, and it made a deep impression on me."

Allard in Oxford , Mass.; Olaf O. Nylander in northern Maine and John C. Purssell in Mindanao, Philippine Islands, are I think quite sufficient to establish the fact that these insects do at times flash in unison. The rarity of the occurrence is a mystery.

In this connection a coincidence might explain a well-known occurrence in a small group of individuals  as at a dinner party when they all cease talking for an appreciable time, but would not explain the quiet pause which one sometimes observes in a large dining hall containing hundreds of diners. I discovered the cause of this phenomenon some years ago. While dining with a number of friends at the Parker House the guests at a neighboring table had been noisy, even boisterous, doubtless we had been somewhat noisy too. The neighboring table suddenly became quiet and we stopped talking to see if the noisy ones had gone, but they were still there, other tables looked about for the pause and this hush spread rapidly through the hall. Dear old Dr. Virchow had often observed this pause and thought my explanation correct. He also told me that it was a saying in his country that when this hush occurred an angel was passing through the room, also that a lieutenant was paying his debts! So in regard to fireflies a dozen or more might flash for awhile in unison as a coincidence, but when thousands are observed to flash in unison no doctrine of probability or chance can account for it.

CONCLUSION: 

If those 'articles' referred to another subject matter and had nothing to do with fireflies, I spent the last two full days for nothing. But discovering something new about fireflies made the research a lot of fun! After all, that's what counts!

John Gavit Morse Postcard From South Station - Boston Dec 26, 1900 *

John Gavit Morse Postcard Boston Dec 26, 1900

This postcard was sent from South Station Boston on December 26, 1900 and reached its destination town of Salem, Mass. on the same day to Julie, John's wife.. The preprinted return address is "Inspection Department of the Factory Mutual Fire Insurance Co's, 31 Milk Street, Boston," where John worked. He writes:

South Station (Boston), Dec 26, 1900

My dear Julie,

Here I am again as I was about every week in November (at least once a week). Train was on time and car not stalled across the city so I am in ample time for the train. Only two days this time. Hope you had a merry Christmas. 

Your own, 

John

This postcard, sent from South Station Boston on December 26, 1900, swiftly traveled to its destination in Salem, Mass., addressed to Julie, John's wife. The preprinted return address, 'Inspection Department of the Factory Mutual Fire Insurance Co's, 31 Milk Street, Boston,' reflects John's workplace. In his succinct note, John conveys his routine visit, hinting at his frequent travels throughout November and now, again, after Christmas.

The message, seemingly casual, bears the weight of routine familiarity, a glimpse into their shared life. Yet, within its brevity lies a subtle mystery; John's whereabouts on Christmas Day remain undisclosed, leaving room for speculation. While the note lacks explicit details, its significance as a bridge connecting their worlds becomes apparent. It carries the unspoken assurance of his return, binding their lives together despite physical separation.

This hurriedly penned postcard, more than a mere update, serves as a lifeline between husband and wife. Through these brief lines, the warmth of their connection endures, transcending the distance and echoing the quiet resilience of their bond.

For John, South Station wasn't just a stop along his route; it was a stage where the dance of routine met the elegance of progress. The inauguration of South Station in 1899 marked a new chapter in the tale of Boston's bustling infrastructure. For John, whose professional duties often led him through its halls, this architectural marvel encapsulated the spirit of progress. The station's grandeur unfolded as one stepped inside—a vast concourse adorned with ornate columns, a cathedral-like ceiling stretching above, and natural light streaming through the expansive windows. The air buzzed with the energy of travelers embarking on journeys near and far.

In the heart of this architectural marvel, John witnessed a convergence of diverse lives and stories. Passengers hurried to catch trains bound for cities yet unseen, while others arrived, their faces reflecting the weariness or excitement of their journeys.

circa 1900 South Station, Boston, Mass.

In the late 1800s and early 1900s, South Station was a symbol of modernity and efficiency, reflecting the advancements of the time. For someone like John, whose routine visits were integral to his professional duties, the station was a confluence of routine responsibilities and the grandeur of progress.

thumbprint

Note: There is a nicely formed thumbprint on the postcard (see red arrow). Could it be John's, Julie's, or the mail carrier/handler's? I guess we will never know!

John G. Morse Letter to Julie Morse 1902 *

This postcard has a postmark of Boston, MA / April 30 / 10 AM / 1902 with a preprinted return address of "Inspection Department of the Factory Mutual Fire Insurance Co's, 31 Milk Street, Boston." John writes that day: 

train ride from Boston to Providence

Dear Julie,

Off for Providence. No time to write more. Hope to get home tonight but doubt it. 

Yours with love,

John

John's note, hurriedly written amidst his departure from Boston to Providence, conveys the purpose of his business trip in concise terms—a necessity overshadowed by uncertainties about his prompt return. "Off for Providence," his brief message states plainly, reflecting the urgency of his task. Penned hastily, it signifies a focused mindset, possibly written just before his departure. It hints at his wish to be home that night, though doubts lingered about the likelihood. The hope for a swift return amidst the unpredictability of his schedule was a reality familiar to many business travelers.

Travel between Boston and Providence during this time relied on efficient train services, often provided by major railway companies like the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad (NYNH&H). These trains, designed for convenience, facilitated quick journeys for professionals like John. He might have chosen an express train for its efficiency or a local service, navigating through the necessities of his business commitments. The steam-powered locomotives ensured a straightforward journey, offering comfort and practicality as he made his way from bustling Boston to Providence.

1894 Opinion of Justice John Marshall Harlan via Edward S. Morse

 1894 アメリカ最高裁判所判事 John Marshall Harlan の裁判意見書

Justice John Marshall Harlan

The letter reads:

Cambridge April 3, 1894

Ever so much obliged to you, my dear Morse, for sending me Judge Harlan's opinion! I devoured it right off & then took it up to the Harvard Law Library, where they were no less pleased to get it. They had neither seen it nor heard of it, & seemed to be amused at the idea of their obtaining it through two such outside barbarians, in law matters as you & I. Please remember me kindly to your family & believe me.

Yours very truly

Robert Rayner

In a letter dated April 3, 1894, between two seemingly unlikely collaborators, Robert Rayner and Edward S. Morse, a fascinating exchange unfolds. At its center lies the expression of gratitude from Rayner to Morse for the transmission of a legal gem — Justice John Marshall Harlan's opinion. This correspondence, now a historical artifact, not only reveals the warmth between the correspondents but also unveils the intriguing dynamics of legal scholarship in the late 19th century.

Rayner's letter exudes appreciation as he thanks Morse for providing him with Judge Harlan's opinion. The enthusiasm is palpable, describing how he "devoured it right off" and shared it with the Harvard Law Library. What makes this exchange captivating is the sense of camaraderie between two self-professed "outside barbarians" in the realm of legal matters, hinting at a shared journey through uncharted territories of jurisprudence.

However, the mystery deepens as we attempt to identify the specific legal opinion in question. Rayner's letter provides a glimpse into the challenges of locating this opinion and raises questions about the broader recognition of Justice Harlan's work during that era. The lack of information on Rayner himself adds an element of intrigue, leaving us to ponder the extent of his influence in legal circles.

Was the referenced opinion not as widely known or discussed even at that time? Supreme Court opinions, particularly dissents, often grapple with delayed recognition. The letter prompts us to explore why certain legal perspectives may escape immediate attention and recognition.

The reaction of the Harvard Law Library adds another layer to this narrative. Their surprise and amusement at obtaining the opinion through the unconventional channels of Rayner and Morse serve as a testament to the uncharted territories these "outside barbarians" dared to traverse.

The letter encourages us to reflect on the evolving nature of legal scholarship. Do certain opinions gain more prominence over time? How does the recognition of legal minds and their contributions shift with the passage of years? The Harvard Law Library's unfamiliarity with Harlan's opinion hints at a dynamic legal landscape where some voices may echo more loudly in later years.

In conclusion, this 1894 letter becomes not just a piece of historical correspondence but a portal into the nuances of legal academia during its formative years. The gratitude expressed by Rayner, the mystery surrounding the referenced opinion, and the unexpected path it took to reach the Harvard Law Library all contribute to a narrative that invites readers to appreciate the historical context and the ever-evolving nature of legal thought.

Six Newly Discovered Postcards Addressed to Edward S. Morse - RARE Japan Connection

 According to S. Kimura, the author of Exchanges between Morse and Japanese People as Evidenced Through Written Correspondence, she mentions that out of the vast collection of over 12,000 letters, a mere 267 can be definitively attributed to Japanese senders corresponding with Morse, underscoring the rarity of such exchanges.

Among the recently discovered postcards (purchased from an online auction simply listed as "Japanese Postcards," with no mention of Morse or their content), four were written by Chujiro Sasaki (佐々木忠次郎) and are dated 1910, 1916, 1922, and 1924. There are also two other postcards in the collection: one from Seiken Takenaka (竹中成憲) dated 1900, and another from Chiyomatsu Ishikawa (石川千代松) dated 1901.

Chujiro Sasaki (1857-1938) stands as a noteworthy figure, having been a protégé of Edward S. Morse during his tenure at the University of Tokyo. As a student in 1877, Sasaki engaged in excavations and surveys at the Omori Shell Mound. In the subsequent years, he also explored the Okadaira Shell Mound, a site of significant archaeological import. Graduating from Tokyo University in 1881, Sasaki pursued further studies in Germany over a span of two years. His academic journey led him to eventually become a professor specializing in zoology, entomology, and sericulture at the Imperial University Agricultural College in 1893.

Seiken (Hachitaro) Takenaka (1862-1925) emerges as a prominent presence within Morse's book Japan Day by Day 1877, 1878-79, 1882-83. Serving as Morse's assistant and interpreter during his initial years in Japan, Takenaka's early affiliation with Morse is well-documented. He pursued a medical education at the University of Tokyo and later transitioned into the role of a military doctor. Notably, Takenaka established his own hospital on Sado Island around 1905.

Ishikawa Chiyomatsu (1861-1935), another student under Morse's tutelage, contributed significantly to the propagation of the theory of evolution in Japan. His impact and achievements extend far and wide.

For a more comprehensive exploration of the lives and accomplishments of the individuals mentioned above, read Sagiri Kimura's paper, available as a PDF file. Thanks to her research paper, I managed to accurately identify the origins of those postcards.

https://edo-tokyo-museum.repo.nii.ac.jp/record/313/files/report35_55-70.pdf

She is a researcher at Edo-Tokyo-Museum: https://www.edo-tokyo-museum.or.jp/en/

letters from Chujiro Sasaki (佐々木忠次郎) 

letters from Chujiro Sasaki (佐々木忠次郎) 

letters from Seiken Takenaka (竹中成憲) and Chiyomatsu Ishikawa (石川千代松)

John G. Morse's Letter to His Wife from Waterbury, Connecticut in 1908 *

 On a postcard bearing the postmark of April 27, 1908, from Waterbury, Connecticut, we find a letter addressed to Mrs. John G. Morse at 12 Loring Ave., Salem, Massachusetts. This postcard offers a poignant glimpse into the past and the enduring relationship between John G. Morse and his wife.

John G. Morse*, the son of Edward S. Morse, was a frequent traveler due to his business commitments. During his trips, he would often pen heartfelt letters to his beloved wife, providing her with updates about his travels and the world beyond their home.

In an age long before instant communication, these handwritten notes served as a lifeline for couples separated by distance. They offer us a unique window into the daily lives and emotions of individuals living in a different era.

On Train to Waterbury, April 27, 1908

My dear Julie,

Horton joined me before we left Boston and we had a hot dusty ride to Hartford. We had lunch at the latter place and then took the 12:50 which is the slow train leaving Boston at 8:30 via Willimantic. We will get to Waterbury at two o'clock and after leaving our things at the hotel will go to the  mill. It is a little cooler at this end of the ride but we are pretty dusty and dirty. Will mail this at the hotel.

With Love, John

Please note: The interpretation provided above is based on my reading of the cursive letter.

John Gould Morse letter to his wife Julie - 1908

The train ride described here in the early 1900s, taking Horton and John from Boston to Hartford and then on to Waterbury, likely involved a combination of steam locomotives, passenger cars, and the typical experiences of rail travel during that era.

Boston to Hartford:

The journey began in Boston, and as they boarded the train, they would have encountered a bustling train station filled with people and activity. The locomotive pulling the train was likely a steam-powered engine, billowing steam and smoke as it prepared to depart. Once aboard, they would have found themselves in wooden or upholstered seats inside passenger cars. These cars often featured large windows, allowing passengers to view the passing landscape as the train made its way through Massachusetts and into Connecticut. The ride would have been dusty, as the train kicked up dirt and dust from the tracks, and the open windows could let in grit and soot.

Hartford to Waterbury:

After their break, Horton and they continued their journey by boarding the 12:50 train. This was described as the "slow train," suggesting that it made more stops along the route or had a less direct path compared to faster express trains. Leaving Hartford, their route would take them via Willimantic, which means they would have traversed the Connecticut countryside.

This part of the journey may have involved picturesque views of rural landscapes, small towns, and possibly glimpses of the Connecticut River. The train's pace would have been more relaxed, allowing for leisurely observation of the scenery.

Waterbury:

They were scheduled to arrive in Waterbury at two o'clock. Upon arrival, they would have likely disembarked at Waterbury's train station, which was often a hub of activity during that time. As mentioned, they planned to leave their belongings at the hotel, indicating that accommodations had been arranged in advance. Afterward, they intended to visit the mill, suggesting a business or work-related purpose for their trip to Waterbury.

Finally, the letter was to be mailed from the hotel, showcasing how people used hotels as communication centers by sending letters and messages during their travels. Overall, this train ride would have been a quintessential experience of early 20th-century rail travel, complete with the sights, sounds, and inconveniences that were characteristic of the era.

*John G. Morse is known as John Gould Morse and John Gavit Morse. 

Henry Fitz-Gilbert Waters of Salem and Edward S. Morse Connection

This postcard, postmarked in 1892, is addressed to Henry F. Waters (Henry Fitz-Gilbert), who lived from 1833 to 1913. He was a well-known antiquarian, genealogist, and a historically significant figure born in Salem, Massachusetts. The sender of the card is "H. D.," representing Sir Henry Dryden, the 4th and 7th Baronet, an English archaeologist and antiquary who lived from 1818 to 1899.

The note mentions someone who appears to be preparing to publish a historical account of a family from 17th-century America, or something along those lines. Unfortunately, due to the challenging penmanship, I couldn't decipher it precisely. The postcard bears a postmark from Byfield, Northampton, with the number "738." I understand that this location served as a Railway Sub Office from 1876 to 1905.

The only connection I could discern was that Waters and Morse both resided in Salem, Massachusetts. Why this postcard was found with the Morse accumulation is uncertain.

Henry Fitz-Gilbert Waters of Salem

John William Dawson to Edward S. Morse 1875 Postcard on First Book of Zoology (Important)

 This postcard addressed to Prof. E. S. Morse, Salem Massachusetts is dated Dec 17 / 75 (1875) with a Montreal postmark and a fancy cancel.

The sender of this postcard was none other than John William Dawson (1820-1899). He was a Canadian geologist, paleontologist, and educator known for his significant contributions to the study of geology, paleontology, and natural history. Dawson took the time to correspond with Professor Morse. Their exchange centered on Morse's "First Book of Zoology," a noteworthy publication. Morse, at the time, had aspirations of raising funds through the sale of this very book to support his upcoming expedition to Japan in 1877.

This postcard not only carries the weight of historical significance but also serves as a tangible connection between two prominent figures in the scientific community of their era. It provides a glimpse into the scholarly exchanges and ambitions that shaped the development of zoology and geology during the late 19th century.

The note reads: 

Many thanks for your first book of zoology which has many pleasant ways of teaching zoology, and will have no doubt be very useful, especially when you add to it the xxxx and xxxx. Why do you use the word cockle for univalve shells. In English the word is invariably used for candium. I was not aware that any one had changed the meaning. / xxxx you / JW Dawson

It appears that Dawson has some concerns or criticisms about the book of zoology. Dawson's tone seems somewhat critical.

John William Dawson - Signed

John Gould Morse or John Gavit Morse - Which Is It?

 What was the real name of Edward Sylvester Morse's son?

John's middle name has long been a source of intrigue for me. When I conducted a name search on various search engines, a multitude of results for "Gould" appeared. This is hardly surprising, given that his father, Edward S. Morse, shared a close and enduring friendship with an individual named John Mead Gould. It's conceivable that Professor Morse chose to bestow his son with the name "Gould."

Furthermore, genealogical sites, including Wikipedia and others, unequivocally display his name as "John Gould Morse." In light of this information, one can confidently assert that his middle name was, in fact, "Gould." Consequently, my belief that "Gould" was his accurate middle name remained steadfast, substantiated by the fact that all the covers in my possession bore only the middle initial "G."

However, an unexpected discovery shook my confidence. I stumbled upon a solitary cover that revealed his full name as "John Gavit Morse." This particular airmail cover had been sent from Bradford, Vermont. As we've previously discussed, Julie, John's wife, hailed from Bradford and was the daughter of David Blakely, the music manager for John Philip Sousa. Armed with this newfound information about John, I felt compelled to delve deeper into his name's origins.

It was during this investigation that I uncovered irrefutable evidence of his middle name in the 1880 Census Record of Salem, Massachusetts. In this official record, Edward S. Morse is listed as the head of the household, identified by his occupation as a Professor of Natural History. His wife, Ellen E., and daughter, Edith, are also recorded. Most significantly, their son is registered as "JOHN GAVIT," conclusively confirming his full name.

It's a joyful sensation when my little detective work yields accurate results, even if they appear inconsequential to others.

Margaret W. Brooks Letter Envelope (Longtime Secretary of Morse)

 The envelope is postmarked April 21, 1927, and it is addressed to Margaret M. Brooks. However, there seems to be an error as the sender mistakenly typed "M" instead of "W" as her middle initial. Margaret, born in 1860, was a daughter of Henry M. Brooks (1822-1898), who authored the Olden Time Series https://www.gutenberg.org/files/17483/17483-h/17483-h.htm. It's worth noting that Edward Morse wrote the introduction for Brooks' Olden-Time Music, published in 1888. Thus, the relationship between Morse and the Brooks family is unquestionable. Additionally, there is a bookplate within the Peabody Essex Museum collection that Edward Morse designed for Henry Brooks (see attached photo).

Margaret is listed in the 1915 Salem Directory as Margaret W. Brooks, residing at 60 Ocean Ave., Salem, Mass. She shares this residence with her sister Alice. Notably, Alice was the manager of the School of the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston. for many years. Alice also held a title at the Essex Institute. Another resident is Jenny, associated with the Jenny Brooks Company, which specialized in selling Original Designs for Embroidery and Cross-Stitched Patterns.

The artwork on the reverse side of the envelope poses a mystery, as does the reason why this particular item was discovered within the Morse estate. Both of these mysteries remain unsolved.

UPDATE:

Oddly, Peabody-Essex-Museum shows her with the initial "M": Scrapbooks was compiled and organized by Margarette M. Brooks, Morse's secretarial assistant from 1878 until 1925.  https://pem.as.atlas-sys.com/repositories/2/resources/182

However, the digital read on https://www.aap.amdigital.co.uk/introduction/nature-and-scope shows a "W": The Scrapbooks series was compiled and organized by Margarette W. Brooks, Morse’s secretarial assistant from 1878 to 1925.

Conclusion: 

From the letter published on https://content.wisconsinhistory.org/digital/collection/p15932coll7/id/5895/rec/1 it clearly shows Margarette uses "W" as her middle initial (see photo). 

Margarette Ward Brooks (1860–1929) is mostly known today as a secretary to Morse, but she was also a scientist in her own right. She wrote "Influence of Temperature on the Chirp of the Cricket" in Popular Science Monthly in 1881 when she was just 21 years old!

1903 Envelope Addressed to Adeline P. Blakely (Parent-in-Law of Edward S. Morse)

 Her maiden name was Adeline Pritchard Low, wife of David Blakely (music manager of John Philip Sousa). Their daughter Julia married John Gavit Morse (son of Edward S. Morse) in 1899. This 1903 postmarked piece from Salem is inscribed "From dear Professor Morse."

Adeline P. Blakely

David Blakely served as the manager and agent for John Philip Sousa during a critical period of his career, which included Sousa's time as the leader of the United States Marine Band and later as the conductor of his own civilian band, the Sousa Band. Blakely played a key role in promoting Sousa's music and helping him achieve widespread recognition and success. He was involved in booking performances, handling contracts, and ensuring that Sousa's compositions and performances reached a broad audience.

Blakely's collaboration with John Philip Sousa contributed to the popularization of American music, particularly patriotic and military-themed compositions. Sousa's marches, such as "The Stars and Stripes Forever," became iconic pieces, and Blakely's efforts in marketing and management helped in this regard.

Through his work with Sousa, David Blakely played a part in shaping the landscape of American music during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Sousa's music and performances, often associated with national pride and patriotism, left a lasting impact on American culture. While David Blakely may not be as widely recognized as John Philip Sousa, his role as a manager and promoter was instrumental in advancing Sousa's career and the popularity of American music. 

1905 Boston to Salem Letter from John G. Morse to Julie Morse: Major Fire! *

 

North Station Boston - North Postal Station Cancel Postcard

This postcard features a preprinted return address: 'Inspection Department of the Factory Mutual Fire Insurance Co's, 31 Milk Street, Boston.' It was penned by John G. Morse, the son of Edward Sylvester Morse, and dispatched to his wife residing at 12 Linden St., Salem, Massachusetts, on December 20, 1905, from North Station in Boston. In his message, John discusses a significant fire incident.

John writes from No. Station Dec 20, 1905

My dear Julie

I had ample time to walk over slowly. The train was 5 min late here but I had 3/4 of an hour to spare. Saw by the Record that this new 23d St Ferry houses of D.L.&W, and Jersey Ave were destroyed by fire and the Erie & Pa RR just barely saved. 

This is not much of a way to end of our monthly-versary but we will make up for lost time next Monday.

Your own, John

Please note: The interpretation provided above is based on my reading of the cursive letter.

In the letter, John is writing to Julie while waiting at North Station in Boston. He mentions that he had plenty of time to take a leisurely stroll, suggesting a relaxed moment amid the bustling travel environment. The fact that he had 45 minutes to spare before his train departed indicates he had some free time on his hands.

John shares some news he came across in the "Record" about a fire that destroyed the new 23rd St Ferry houses of D.L.&W and Jersey Ave. He also mentions that the Erie & Pa RR narrowly escaped the flames. This information provides historical context, shedding light on the challenges and risks associated with transportation and infrastructure during that era.

While John G. Morse was indeed in Boston at North Station when he wrote the letter, the fire incident he discusses actually happened in Jersey City, which he likely learned about from a newspaper or another source during his time in Boston. This account most likely refers to an incident in Jersey City in 1905 when a fire ravaged the ferry houses of the Delaware, Lackawanna, and Western Railroad near 23rd Street. It also posed a threat to the nearby Erie and Pennsylvania Railroad facilities. Jersey City was a significant transportation and industrial hub during that period, with multiple railroads and ferry terminals along the Hudson River waterfront. Such incidents were not uncommon in industrial cities of that era.

1891 John Gavit Morse - Stamp Collector *

 We have three "wraps" here that arrived for John from Canada. They likely contained either a price list or a promotional flyer tailored to postage stamp collectors. One of the parcels bears a return address from Toronto, while the other two lack any sender information.

Initially, I encountered some difficulty identifying the sender due to the name appearing as "WILSON WILEY," which produced no likely hit on search engines. After spending a considerable amount of time trying to ascertain the sender's identity, I decided to explore the possibility that it might be "WILSON WILBY." The letter following the "L" in the name (WIL?Y) was somewhat ambiguous, leaving room for different interpretations.

To my pleasant surprise, it turned out to be correspondence from a stamp dealer. This discovery led me to locate one of his advertisements, revealing his specialization in foreign stamps. While the advertisement showcased only a small portion of his stamp inventory, it was evident that his primary focus was on dealing in common, low-value stamps.

It is unclear how much effort John put into collecting stamps, or whether he collected stamps at all. However, he must have shown some interest in collecting them, at the very least. Did he develop an interest in collecting Japanese stamps due to his father's connection with Japan?