John Martin Letter to Mrs E A Bates 1906

A very interesting piece of history dating back to March 16th 1906. Letterhead of The Big Store, John Martin & Company Limited who was the major South Australian department store chain which operated from 1866-1998. John Martin’s is likened to Grace Bros, Foy & Gibson and Marcus Clark & Co now all owned by the big few David Jones, Coles and Woolworths.

This particular piece of ephemera, a letter sent to a customer of John Martin’s, Mrs E A Bates of Penneshaw, King Island. The Bates family, the earliest settlers of King Island, South Australia.

In excellent condition with accompanying envelope and Penneshaw postmark on the back of the envelope.

“John Martin & Company Limited Merchant Drapers and Importers.
Adelaide March 16th 1906.
Mrs E A Bates, Sea View Villa, Penneshaw, K.I.
Dear Madam,
Goods ordered have been forwarded per To-day’s Mail. We beg to state that the Silk is nearest we can supply or procure to pattern. As Navy Hose are not obtainable we have taken the liberty of sending Black and trust same will prove suitable.
Thanking you for your favor, and assuring you of our best attention at all times.
We are, dear Madam,
Yours faithfully,
John Martin and Company Limited”