Lot 1165
Livingston, Wells & Pomeroy's Express, Agents: Bennett, Backus & Hawley-Utica., black on pink express label with ship and train vignettes, tied by vertical file fold crease on folded letter datelined "Utica, Dec 10, 1844" to New York City street address, endorsed "Order"; bit of top left corner paper loss.Estimate $300 - 400.
Realized: $525
Lot 1166 ()
Livingston, Wells & Pomeroy's Express. Office: No. 2 Wall Street, New-York., black on light blue-green label with transportation vignettes, used on circa 1844 blue folded cover with top flap only to Buffalo, N.Y., reduced slightly at bottom, fresh and Very Fine express label use during Independent Mail Company period, ex-Foote.Estimate $200 - 300.
In 1850 three expresses merged to form American Express - Wells & Co., Livingston & Fargo and the recently formed Butterfield, Wasson & Co. American Express at first functioned as two divisions, Livingston, Fargo and Wells, Butterfield. In 1867 Merchants Union Express, a competing express, was formed - the following year it merged with American Express, the new company being renamed American Merchants' Union Express Company. That name lasted until early 1873 when it was changed back to American Express Company. All these companies except Butterfield, Wasson & Co. used labels.
Realized: $525