Letter of the Day: October 8 (1 of 2)

Ward’s Natural Science Establishment,

Nos. 16—26 College Avenue (opposite University),

Rochester, N.Y., Oct. 8 1885.

 

Dr. John Billings.

Army Medical Museum.

 

Dear Sir,

 

I enclose a small bill * (Skeleton of 19 years old cat $5.00.) simply to put it on record, so that it may be paid at some future day.

 

I am offered from Europe two young Gorillas – 1 ½ years old – male and female. They are in spirits, with their viscera taken out, but left in good shape to dissect every part of the muscular system and afterwards to make skeletons.

 

My price – shipped to you form here – is $275 for the pair or $150 for one.

 

As such specimens are rare, I make you an early offer.

 

Respectfully yours,

 

Henry A. Ward,

 

I have Jumbo’s heart in alcohol in a 5 Gallon keg which it nearly fills. Price $40.

 

*Bill forwarded to Disbursing Div., S.G.O. Oct 10, 1885.

Letter of the Day #2: February 4

February 4, 1889

General:

I have the honor to request authority to purchase for deposit in the Army Medical Museum the following specimens to be paid for from the Museum appropriation:

Skull of Troglodytes gorilla, adult, Cost, $30.00
Skull of Troglodytes niger, adult [Cost] $13.00


I am, General, Very respectfully, Your obedient servant,

(Signed) John S. Billings

Surgeon US Army
Curator Army Medical Museum



Surgeon General, US Army
Washington D.C.