(CALIFORNIA.) Unpublished manuscript description of travels in northern Alta California. 3 pages, 12...

(CALIFORNIA.) Unpublished manuscript description of travels in northern Alta California. 3 pages, 12 1/4 x 8 1/2 inches, on one folding sheet; at least one earlier sheet apparently lacking, two short closed tears, minor wear and moderate soiling. Np, circa late 1820s or 1830s

This intriguing Spanish-language document describes travel routes east and north of San Francisco Bay during the early years of Mexican rule, mentioning the Strait of Carquinez, the Peralta Ranch (also known as Rancho San Antonio), Santa Clara, San José (estimated population of 2,500), Mission San Rafael, Mission San Francisco Solano in present-day Sonoma (not established until 1823), and ending on the coast at the small Russian settlements of Bodega Bay and Fort Ross (sold by the Russians in 1838).
The latter part of the document is more descriptive, noting that in the region rich wines are made, olive trees are abundant, and many kinds of fruit have been imported and thrived. They lament the rapid decline of the fur trade, exacerbated by North Americans based in Hawaii who have pursued the otter and beaver with "insulting and scandalous tenacity." It concludes with a tribute to the California fisheries, rich in salmon, sardine, cod, flounder, and more, noting the occasional visits by whaling vessels. Although we can offer no suggestions as to possible authorship, the content of this remarkable document stands on its own account. A complete transcription is available upon request.