Worldwide Stamps and Postal History

Brig "Phoebe Ann". 1822 (Apr 18) Entire letter from "Balize, mouth of the Mississippi River" to Toughkeepsie, N.Y with red New York c.d.s (May 6) and "SHIP", charged 12c, endorsed "Ship Ohio, Capt. Gifford". The writer reports how in attempting to go to sea in a strong wind "Phoebe Ann" got on the bar and was holed, probably by the anchor of a previous wreck, and took on water in the hold; the cotton was saved but all other cargo was thrown overboard before the ship was finally refloated.
Suggested price: £ 60-80