P1501

Steamboats

Phoenix, 1809

Collins Cover Announcement 

EARLY STEAMBOATS

The Phoenix - 1809

This cover is the first in a series of five depicting very early steamboats that plied the nation's waterways in the early 1800's -- almost two centures ago. These hand-painted FDCs will be magnificent additions to your collection and are excellent companion covers to my five-piece Early Locomotive set (C1301, C1302).

The Phoenix was berthed in Philadelphia and the ship is shown moored along the historic waterfront. High masted sailing ships -- still in their glory but with their commercial days numbered by the advent of steam -- rest peacefully side by side with the Phoenix. In the foreground, a two-man boat is rowed toward an unoccupied dock. This foreground gives depth to the realistic colonial waterfront. This COLLINS cover and the four others in the series that will be offered over the next few months have cachets that are perfect for the watercolor art form. An FDC that I urge you not to miss acquiring.

The booklet of steamboat ships was issued in the gulf port city of New Orleans. After acquiring the stamps, it was a quick flight to Philadelphia for a fine unofficial First Day Cancel at the Colonial Station Branch which is just a stone's throw from the waters over which the Phoenix steamed so many years ago. Item #P1501 - $7.50