BAIRD, SPENCER (1823-1887) American ornithologist and ichthyologist
Autograph Letter Signed, 4to, on Smithsonian Institution stationery Washington, D.C Feb 9, 1882.
This letter was sent to Henry Mills Esq. In Buffalo, NY, and reads, "Dear Sir, If the specimens of natural history, which you offer to send through the mail are dry, I do not see how the post-master can refuse them; if they are wet, or in alcohol, it would be contrary to regulation. We will take great pleasure in forwarding to destination anything of this kind that you may send us, on condition of receiving a similar series for the Natural Museum….” Signed in full, “ Spencer Baird”. With the holograph Stamped Envelope with printed address of Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C. (Item ID: 1676)
$150.00
Baird's duties at the Smithsonian included the superintendence of the labor of workers in widely different lines. Thus, apart from his assistance to others, his own studies and published writings cover a broad range: iconography, geology, mineralogy, botany, anthropology, general zoology, and, in particular, ornithology; while for a series of years he edited an annual volume summarizing progress in all scientific lines of investigation.
