The Surprise of the Night-Blooming Cereus . . . in 1825

Some of the fun in conducting research comes from serendipity and synchronicity. In this case, while sleuthing for more about the mysterious 19th century French-speaking Villagrand family in New York City, I came across an advertisement for the also mysterious night-blooming cereus. There's a personal history connected to the latter, but more on that soon. 

From the New York Evening Post (July 18, 1825). Evidently, Castle Garden is the place to be. Online source via here.