For The Love Of Port

Hi - I am interested in purchasing an historical bill of lading (or other historical document) from Quinta do Noval that would be suitable for framing. I would appreciate any suggestions for where I might locate one. Many thanks!

Theo,

I am curious why of all places you'd specifically like the information from Quinta do Noval?

Sadly in the mid-1980s they had a huge fire and the vast majority of the family's historical records about the property were lost in that blaze. A friend of mine who used to be a co-owner of Noval, has recounted this terrible moment for me and his family lost so many treasures.

There is one other option. The Port Lover's Library which I had written about in the newsletter that was just released, may be one of the best sources for this type of information. Isaac has many reprints or docs within his old book that he might be able to source for you. It is worth a try!

Roy,

It was your article about Isaac which stimulated me to ask the question. After reading the fascinating piece on him, I contacted Isaac to ask whether he was aware of any Noval historical documents being available, and he said that they are incredibly hard to find. He also suggested that I might start with books that reference Noval - by the way, he replied incredibly quickly to my question, and seems to be an absolute font of information about historical documents pertaining to Portugal, just as your article reported.

Why Noval? Because for better or for worse (for worse, only becuase it can cost a pretty penny) it was the first port that I tried and you know what they say about the first...! Now, next month, my fiancee and I will visit Pinhao for our honeymoon and we are especially looking forward to stopping by Quinta do Noval!

Theo

Theo,

Please let me know the day/date you are planning to go to Noval by email along with your full contact information (home ph#). I'll also need to know the name of your wife-to-be.


Roy