RECEIPT/BILL OF LADING – HARNDEN EXPRESS -  1850s
Unused bill of lading for the Harnden Express and Howard & Co. Express,  and The Howard Express. Philadelphia. . 5 ¼” x 8 ¼”, cream paper with light red printing,  two sided, the front has appealing graphics illustrating both an ocean vessel and railroad. The back has the offices of the express companies (which shared the same building, and was served by the same general agent George R. Dunn).
<P> William Harnden is considered to be the "father" of the express business in the United States. His first advertisement appeared on February 23, 1839 and announced express car service four times a week between Boston and New York. The primary function was the handling of small packages, money, and orders for goods. In 1854 Harnden and Company merged with three other express companies to form Adams Express, led by Alvin Adams. 
<P>Unused, a bit of toning, VG- Fine condition.     ex001 35