Description
This collection consists mainly of letters to and from Wells, Fargo & Company official Hosmer B. (Buckingham) Parsons (1846-1908),
who joined the company in 1867 and later became president of its bank in New York. The papers deal with company business and
company's relationships with railroad lines and competing express firms. Some of the papers relate to the personal business
affairs of Hosmer B. Parsons, including his investments in Mexico.
Background
Wells, Fargo & Company was founded in New York in 1852 through the amalgamation of several companies by Henry Wells (1805-1878)
and William George Fargo (1818-1881). It was expanded in the wake of the Gold Rush to handle the growing express business
in the West. Henry Wells is not represented in the collection, nor is William G. Fargo, but there are a few letters from or
about his brothers James Congdell Fargo and Charles Fargo who were active in Wells, Fargo & Company and the American Express
Company. In 1872, Lloyd Tevis (1824-1899) became president of Wells, Fargo & Company followed in 1892 by John Joseph Valentine
(1840-1901).
Extent
42 Linear Feet
(35 boxes, 11 volumes)
Restrictions
The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to quote from or publish images of this material,
nor does it charge fees for such activities. The responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and
obtaining necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
Open for use by qualified researchers and by appointment. Please contact Reader Services at the Huntington Library for more
information.