[JAPANESE-AMERICAN] [MILITARY] [MENU] WRIGHT'S HOTEL, YOKOHAMA, JAPAN; BILL OF FARE - October 15, 1905

Yokohama, Japan: 1905. Cards. 28 x 15 cm. Sometimes a Menu is more than a mere piece of ephemera, sometimes these pieces of paper give us a glimpse into the past that surprises us and shines a light on the events that were underway at the time. This menu is just that - Besides the hand written aspect of this 1905 menu, the verso is covered with a letter home from an American business man or soldier. At the time this letter was written, the end to the Russo-Japanese War (1904-1905) had just occurred. The writer reflects: "His steamer is in all probability just outside the harbor waiting for day. They wouldn't let the steamers come in after 6pm now as account of the mines in the harbor. I'm glad that cruel war is over, I hope the Japanese will receive Baron Komura all right and not try to blow up the ship that he & Lou are on. The British fleet is here in the harbor now." The writer is referring to Komura Jutaro, a Japanese statesman and diplomat. Komura helped to conclude the Anglo-Japanese Alliance in 1902. He also attended the Treaty of Portsmouth on behalf of the Japanese government to sign the treaty. The writer may have been referring to the Hibiya incendiary incident which occurred around the same time. The letter goes on to review the victory celebrations and discuss the hope that China and Japan will come to their senses. As to the menu, the food included: Mulligatawny Soup, Boiled Salmon with Tartar Sauce, Chicken Galantine & Champignon, Beef Cutlet in Tomato Sauce, Roast Turkey with Cranberry Sauce, Vegetables, Plum Pudding and Vanilla Ice Cream. "Gentlemen are requested not to commence smoking before 8:15 pm." Discernible crease through the middle with some foxing and stains. Cream illustrated cards. Good. Item #4264

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