Unique archive of Montgolfier family correspondence, including one letter by Joseph-Michel Montgolfier, who (with brother Jacques-Etienne) invented the first successful hot-air balloon, and two letters by their father, Pierre. Includes:
ALS in French by Joseph-Michel Montgolfier, signed "J. Montgolfier," three pages on two adjoining sheets, 7.5 x 9.5, July 7, 1800. Untranslated handwritten letter discussing the family's financial difficulties connected with their scientific work, noting that he they are taking into in consideration tobacco investments in Virginia.
ALS by Pierre Montgolfier, signed "Montgolfier," five pages on adjoining sheets, 6.25 x 8.5, no date. Handwritten letter to his daughter with commentary on the "machine aerostatique."
Unsigned handwritten letter in French by Pierre Montgolfier, four pages on adjoining sheets, 6.25 x 8.5, with pencil date notation of November 21, 1783. Untranslated letter to his daughter about the experience with the M. de Montgolfier aerostatique machine with reference to Benjamin Franklin, American representative in Paris, on the last page. In overall fine condition.
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