Letter signed Flora Byrne, Saint Louis, to [Mrs. Mayer, Franklin Street, Baltimore, Maryland]. Thanks her for kindness to daughter Annie. The little I have seen of this city disposes me to like it as a western residence. “You would be surprised at the success with which music is cultivated here.” Baltimore cannot boast of such a fine violinist as Mr. Fallon or so exquisite a flute as Mr. Carriere’s. “The people are by no means hospitable.” They distrust strangers and even pay no attention to letters of introduction. Mrs. Major Lee lives here in great style. She called on me six weeks ago. Mrs. Hoffman is my most agreeable acquaintance. Sends copy of note she had just received from her. Expect to leave here in March, go to the cabin, and make preparations for the garden, etc., and see you by April 20th. Note in pencil on back to Mary from Eliza C. Mayer stating she sends Flora’s letter for her to read. Individuals mentioned include Eliza, Flora, Mary, Annie, Charley, Mr. Fallon, Mr. Carriere, Mr. Mayer, Mrs. Major Lee, Mrs. Dr. Hoffman, Mrs. Rhodes, Mrs. Elliot, Madame Cauderbeck, Madame Trefonti, Mr. Read, and Edmond. Places mentioned include Baltimore and St. Louis. (4 pages), 1840 Feb 6

Item — Box: 1, Folder: 1

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

From the Collection:

The Mayer Family Papers consist of the correspondence of Flora Byrne to Mrs. Charles F. Mayer. Describes her life and family at Byrnham Wood in Clark County near Winchester, Missouri. Includes correspondence from various members of the family in Baltimore, Maryland. The letters contain many sidelights on the state of development in that day, mention well-known characters, and show the facilities for transportation between the Atlantic seaboard and St. Louis. The latest letters, dated in 1861, document Civil War movements in St. Louis and Baltimore. The collection also includes miscellaneous correspondence regarding the donation and the drawings of Francis [Frank] Blackwell Mayer.