The Pacific Encyclopedia

OF

HISTORY, BIOGRAPHY, SCIENCE, COMMERCE, POLITICS
AND GENERAL INFORMATION.

For several years past we have entertained the idea of publishing a
work of Universal Information upon matters relative to the Pacific Coast;
a work, which, taking up men and things from the beginning, will, in clear
and concise statements, forever establish such facts as are worth preserving.

And we feel it is time for this work to be commenced. Those who are
now laying the foundations of a vast empire upon this new soil, will soon
pass away, and their deeds be lost in oblivion; facts and circumstances
considered now of little moment will possess greater significance to those
who come after us.

Our object is to transfix an immense mass of valuable material which
is now fast fading away, and to preserve it in a suitable shape.

It is no small undertaking; the steady occupation of five or ten persons
for five or ten years is what we look forward to at the outset. We have
collected a library for this purpose of about 15000 volumes, and it is yet by
no means complete.

As a money-making enterprise it offers no attractions whatever; but as
a work upon which to build a reputation, and take a pride in, every
intelligent thinking man who has ever done anything worthy of record,
is as much and more interested in it than we are.

But with the help of those who will appreciate our efforts and judge
fairly our motives, we will try it, and we ask their hearty co-operation in
the collection of material for the work.

A. L. BANCROFT & CO.,

721 MARKET STREET,
SAN FRANCISCO, CAL.