While we’re on the subject of the 1881 “Albany Hand-book,” let’s note its peculiar entry regarding birds:
“The bird-stores of a city are always interesting places to visit, especially to those who are fond of the feathered songsters. There are usually some curious foreign birds on exhibition, and always good singers to be heard. The Hartz mountain canaries are sold from $2 to $3; parrots from $5 to $50; mocking birds from $5, for young ones, up to $20, and even $50. In buying, it is always best to go to some responsible dealer; the canaries hawked about the streets, and sold under price, are either females which never sing, or inferior stock of some kind. The only bird-store in Albany, is William R. White’s, 44 Green st., an old established stand, where customers are honestly dealt with.”