1848 USA letter Baltimore to merchant Cornelius & Co Philadelphia

1848 letter from Baltimore merchant Geo C. Collins & Denson regarding possible order from Cornelius & Co. prominent Philadelphia manufacturer of lighting fixtures.

Baltimore 7^th march 1848
Mesrs Cornelius & CO
Gentlemen,

Your telegraph despatch was received and answered immediately. Since which we have received of brine sheath in copper. Such as the large lot had of us lack not yet weighed but sappose to be about 300 4000 th. We received an order from your city last week which  --- us of all our kettles, prices and – who say they will take all we receive. They paid us 18 65/100 and we think  for this --- you must give us 18 75/ . If you want answer by telegraph and we will ship at once., Yours

Geo C. Collins & Denson
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Addressed to Cornelius & Co Merchant Philadelphia

On back ‘1848 Geo. C. Collins & Denson March 7’

Postmarked in blue  BALTIMORE MAR 7 Md, along with postal rate stamp  ‘5’ in circle.

Cornelius & Co. was a prominent Philadelphia manufacturer of lighting fixtures in the mid‑19th century. In 1848, the firm was producing gilt‑bronze girandoles, lamps, and gas fixtures, and was already well established as one of the leading decorative arts companies in the city.

• Founded: The business was started in 1827 by Christian Cornelius, a Dutch immigrant silversmith
• Products: They specialized in brass and gilt‑bronze lighting fixtures, including chandeliers, girandoles (decorative candelabra), and later gas fixtures.
• Reputation: Their work was considered high‑quality and ornate, often combining bronze, marble, and cut glass. Some pieces were installed in major public buildings, including the U.S. Capitol.

Geo. C. Collins & Denson was a Baltimore merchant firm listed in Matchett’s Baltimore Directory (1847–48).