Publication InformationSmithsonian,Washington, D.C., Feb. 17 1882

Page 1

Dear Mr. Marsh:

I enclose a sample of coral bead, such as [is] in great demand among the North American Indians, & I would be much obliged if you will find out in any way the name of the makers in Italy--possibly somewhere on the Mediterranean--& the cost per string of definite length or number.

We are preparing a grand crusade against the possessions of

the Indians of New Mexico, & are assured that beads of this kind are the best material we can have for trade. There is nothing specially new at the present time. The re-organization of the National Museum promises to be a great success, & the collection will, I think, attract deserved attention.

With love for Mrs. Marsh, believe me,Sincerely yours,Spencer F BairdHon. Geo. P. Marsh.Rome</addrLine>Italy

References in this letter:

As a consequence of the 1876 Centennial Exposition, the Smithsonian acquired a tremendous number of objects and required larger quarters for its museum. In 1876 Joseph Henry proposed to add on wing to the original Castle, but the Regent's eventually agreed on the need for another building and in 1879 Congress appropriated for the new structure, the National Museum Building.