Hallo nordlicht!
My first reaction was that this item probably started in Mexico or Nicaragua.
It is odd that it is referenced as "Texas steamer" instead of "steamer Texas," but I am pretty sure it is referencing the ship. Here is information about that steamer from the
Ships LIst website .
TEXAS1151 tons, length 216ft x beam 35ft, wooden hull, side paddle wheels, two masts. Built
by Thomas Collyer, New York in 1852 for Charles Morgan. Operated between New York and
San Juan de Nicaragua for
Vanderbilt and Charles Morgan until Apr.1857. Abandoned in sinking
condition off Texas on 5th Oct.1868.
A bit more looking shows that the steamer Texas did carry mail from Mexico to New York City in the 1854-1856 period.There apparently is an interesting story surrounding that steamer in
September and
October of 1856 if you wish to research it.
Best,
Rob