When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Authentic 19th-century signed envelope by Captain Eric Gabrielsen, commander of the SS Dexter — the ship credited with rescuing survivors from the SS Columbia disaster off the California coast in August 1893.
The envelope features Captain Gabrielsen’s bold autograph on the front, with a contemporary hand-written notation identifying him as
“Captain of the Dexter which rescued passengers from the Columbia.”
Original envelope, c. 1890s
Measures approx. 3.5 × 6 inches
Fine condition with light age toning
Unsigned verso; unsealed
A rare autograph from one of the West Coast’s most celebrated maritime captains
Historical Note:
On August 22, 1893, the SS Columbia collided with the SS San Pedro off Shelter Cove, California. Captain Eric Gabrielsen of the Dexter led the rescue effort that saved dozens of passengers from the wreck — an act that earned him national recognition in contemporary newspapers.
A scarce and historic maritime autograph connecting directly to one of the most famous Pacific Coast sea rescues of the 19th century.
