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Alexander M. de Bree letters : ALS : and related materials. 1844-1845
BANC MSS 91/61 cpLOCAL
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Collection Overview
Title:
Alexander M. de Bree letters : ALS: and related materials. 1844-1845Creator/Contributor:
Bree, Alexander M. de., creatorAbstract:
A few days out of Monterey, Calif. en route to Mazatlan. Describes his recent visit to Hawaii, remarking in particular on
the "civilizing influence" of American missionaries, including observations on King Kamehameha and other members of the royal
family. Of his stay in San Francisco he remarks in particular on the abundance of wildlife in the surrounding countryside
and upon the excellence of the port, which he compares in favorable terms to that of Rio. Of Monterey his remarks (chiefly
unfavorable) focus on the Mexican inhabitants, and on how little use his knowledge of French is in a country where Spanish
is the dominant language.
En route to Hawaii, having come from Mazatlan via Monterey, Calif. Comments on recent news from the U.S. with rumors of war
with Mexico, which he considers highly unlikely. Expresses distain for the Mexicans ("the finest specimens of cowards") and
of the rich and politically powerful in the United States who, he suggests, are too afraid of loosing their wealth and power
to stand up (i.e. to fight) for principles, including respect and support for the United States military.
U.S. Navy service history for Alexander M. de Bree, 1841-1862; a history of the Warren, 1827-1874; photocopy of a letter (location
of original unknown) from Commander James B. Hull, Commander of the Warren (July 23, 1844) , making reference to a "feast"
mentioned in De Bree's letter of Sept. 19, 1844.
Date:
1844 (issued)Subject:
III, King of the Hawaiian Islands -- Kamehameha -- 1813-1854Warren (Frigate)
United States. -- Navy. -- Pacific Squadron.
United States -- History -- 1845-1848 (War with Mexico)
Hawaii -- Social life and customs
California -- Description and travel
California -- History -- To 1846
Note:
Both letters are postmarked New York [,] Ship.
Alexander M. de Bree, son of John and Mary W. de Bree, served in the United States Navy, 1841-1860. He was dismissed in 1861
for failure to take an oath of allegiance to the United States, and eventually served in the Confederate Navy. His father
also served in the U.S. Navy, and was stationed at Norfolk, Virginia at the time these letters were written.
Physical Description:
3 items.
Language:
English
Identifier:
BANC MSS 91/61 cpLOCAL