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Rare 1883 Detroit & Cleveland Steam Navigation Co. Season Pass – Great Lakes Steamboat
Issued to C. E. Herlitz, T.A., Erie R.R. and signed by D. Carter, General Manager
Original 1883 season pass from the Detroit & Cleveland Steam Navigation Co., the famous “D&C Line” that ran palatial night boats on Lake Erie between Detroit and Cleveland.
The D&C Line was founded in 1868 and became the premier passenger line on the Great Lakes. Its steamers City of Detroit, City of Cleveland, and Northwest were floating palaces. This 1883 pass predates the famous City of Detroit III of 1912. Railroads like the Erie issued interline passes with steamship lines for executives and agents — this was given to an Erie RR Ticket Agent for free transport during the 1883 season.
Date: 1883, with large red “1883” overprint • Line: Detroit & Cleveland Steam Nav. Co. – Lake Erie Division • Route: “Between Detroit and Cleveland” – meals and berths at regular rates • Issued To: C. E. Herlitz, T.A. — Ticket Agent, Erie Railroad • Pass No.: 1655 • Signed: By D. Carter, General Manager of the D&C Line • Vignette: Gorgeous engraved centerpiece of sidewheel steamer Northwest flanked by “City of Detroit” and “City of Cleveland” • Reverse: “FOR TRANSPORTATION ONLY” with full 1883 conditions text. Non-transferable. Company not liable for accidents/injury. • Size: Approx. 4" x 2½" with clipped corners, per tape measure photos • Condition: Very Good+ antique condition for 141 years old. Light age toning, minor corner wear, small spot top edge. Strong graphics and signatures. No tears or repairs. See photos
Guaranteed original 1883. Not a reprint or copy. Please see all photos — they are part of the description. Questions welcome.
