ALS signed “M. Van Buren,” one page, 8 x 10, May 13, 1856. Handwritten letter to Col. Thomas Aspinwall, U.S. Consul at London. In part: "Mr. O. R. Van Benthuysen of Albany, Printer to the State, & a worthy and respectable citizen visits London on business connected with his trade. I take much interest in Mr. VB's welfare & will be personally obliged by any facilities you may have it in your power to extend to him." In fine condition.
O. R. Van Benthuysen established his printing firm in 1807 at the age of 20. The business grew steadily and was designated as New York's State Printer in 1822. In 1828, it became the first in the United States to apply the steam engine to printing presses. Presumably, Van Benthuysen's visit to London was related to his interest in steam presses and other improvements in the trade.
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