Speech of Mr. Edson B. Olds, Of Ohio, on the Collins Line of Steamers. Delivered In the House of Representatives, February 15, 1855

Washington, D.C. J. T. & Lem Towers, 1855. 56 pages; (from the title page) "The contest between the Collins Line and the Cunard Line has been eminently a National contest. And this is the testimony of an Englishman-the testimony of an experienced British naval officer- and after reading it, what American would strike down these noble vessels?"; Edward Knight Collins (1802-1878) shipowner & operator of packet lines to Vera Cruz and New Orleans; started the Collins line of mail steamers in competition with the British Cunard concern, exceeding their speed and attracting the cream of the passenger trade; this forced the reduction of British freight rates. Unfortunately, several disasters overtook the experiment and he was forced to dissolve the company in 1858; this speech is a good defense of "why" we should be competing with Cunard and reasons for keeping American maritime interests vital; 5 3/4" x 9" approx. size; lacks cover wraps; side-sewn; some edge, tips wear and foxing to paper; good condition. Item #4866

Price: $65.00

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