Israel Pemberton, Letterbook D, 1744-1747

Mss.380.P36

Date: 1744-1747 | Size: 1 volume(s), 1 volume, 558 p.

Abstract

This volume contains letters relating to the purchase and shipment of goods in America, Europe, and the West Indies, commecing 22d, 12mo. 1744, ending 6th, 2mo. 1747. Some are signed by Matthias Aspden, John Reynell, and John Smith.

Background note

1 volume, 558 p.

Philadelphia Quaker Israel Pemberton, a merchant and philanthropist, was elected to the American Philosophical Society in 1768.

Collection Information

Provenance

Accessioned, 1900 (2685).

Early American History Note

The Israel Pemberton Letter book contains a range of data on Philadelphia shipping and trade. Pemberton was a merchant who had connections to Samuel Coates (Mss.B.C632 , Mss.C.632.1d , Mss.B.C632.1). These records precede Coates and pertain to trade in Philadelphia during the 1740s. They show a merchant with strong ties throughout the Atlantic World. His letters discuss a range of business matters, such as prices of commodities, costs of insurance, and general trade environment. Pemberton's letters discuss intercolonial trade with Maryland and Virginia (tobacco in particular), while others with matters in Europe and the Caribbean (sugar, rum, bar iron), reflecting his various trading interests. In addition to the business correspondence, Pemberton's letters occasionally discuss more quotidian matters, describing events in Philadelphia and relaying news he hears from abroad and on very rare occasions his family affairs.

Indexing Terms


Genre(s)

  • Business Records and Accounts
  • General Correspondence
  • Letterbooks.

Geographic Name(s)

  • America -- Colonization.
  • Europe -- Commerce.
  • West Indies.

Personal Name(s)

  • Aspden, Matthias, 1748-1824
  • Pemberton, Israel, 1715-1779
  • Reynell, John,1708-1784.
  • Smith, John

Subject(s)

  • Business and Skilled Trades
  • Commerce.
  • International Trade.
  • Philadelphia History
  • Social Life and Custom
  • Trade