#N4-025
1918
Text in Greek. Quarto (ca. 27,5 x 21 cm or 10 ¾ x 8 ¼ in). 1 page. Brown ink on beige stationary paper on the blank of “Angelina Confectionery.” Folds, the bottom piece of the letter is restored (strengthened with the Japanese paper), but otherwise a very good letter written in a legible hand.
Historically interesting original manuscript letter from a Greek confectionery shop owner in Chicago, sharing his business problems with his brother, Panagiotis, in Patra, Greece.
Greek immigration to Chicago began in the 1840s and accelerated after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. By the 1910s, it was common for Near West Side businesses (including shops, cafes, and florists) to be Greek-owned.
In the letter, the author, Andreas, reports on a legal dispute regarding a land lot referred to as "Grand Park" (likely Grant Park). He explains that although an agreement was reached to divide the land (complete with professional measurements and the installation of fences), a disagreement with the other parties has resulted in a legal conflict. Andreas notes he has already paid significant sums toward the matter, specifically $500 plus an additional $100 for expenses and legal fees. The correspondence also suggests that Panagiotis is preparing to immigrate to America, as news of his plans was delivered by Theodoros, another member of the Chicago Greek community.
Overall, a historically significant letter documenting the business and legal challenges of an early Greek immigrant in Chicago.
