Abstract The B. H. Blanton letter (1858) is dated 30 September 1858, is addressed to "Dear Gen'l," and signed "B. H. Blanton." The writer asks for information about gold mines discovered at Pikes Peak, and mentions that he is an old Californian who maintains his excitement in the discovery of new diggings. Other references concern opinions and individuals on the political scene in California. Among the names deciphered are Broderick, McKibben, and Baldwin.