G. R. L. Penney diary and letters, 1863-1864Penney, G. R. L. (George R. L.)engThe diary (about 130 pages) of George R. L. Penney, of Winsted, Connecticut, describes his journey from New York to California via Panama, his voyage up the coast to Portland, and his trip by steamer and foot eastward along the Columbia River to Placerville, Idaho. He describes mining for wages and prospecting with friends. The diary ends in October 1863, but his letters to his wife continue until June 1864. The letters, written from New York, on board ship, Portland, and Placerville, describe his trip, his life in Placerville and his work as a miner and a blacksmith