Robert Campbell was one of the most widely known and influential businessmen of the American West. Born in March, 1804 in Aughlane, County Tyrone, Ireland, references to Mr. Campbell can be found in the journals and letters of the early American fur-trapping period. During his early years, he was associated with almost legendary figures of the fur trade, such as John O'Fallon, William H. Ashley, Thomas Fitzpatrick, Jedediah Smith, Jim Bridger and William Sublette. After ten years of trapping and trading, Campbell returned to St Louis where he formed Sublette and Campbell. When the firm was dissolved on January 12, 1842 Campbell established a large dry-goods store and began investing in real estate. Over the years, he became the proprietor of the Southern Hotel, invested in steamboats and was President of both The Bank of The State of Missouri and The Merchant's National Bank. He also engaged in public service. In 1846 during the Mexican-American War, he was appointed to the staff of John C. Edwards, Governor of Missouri, holding the rank of Colonel. Due to his familiarity with the Indian tribes in the West, Campbell was twice appointed Indian Commissioner. Series four of the Robert Campbell Family Collection / Campbell Fur Trade papers is called "Publications", and contains Government documents and reports; pamphlets; maps; business ephemera; advertising flyers and cards; broadside separates and other printed material -- possessions of Robert Campbell and family. Subseries 4-B consists principally of Catalogues and Pamphlets.

AMDigital Reference: M-107 4-B-3.

Reproduction of: Address of the Directors of the Pacific Railroad to the People of Missouri 20 Aug 1859.

St. Louis Mercantile Library