Mahmud's Diary
The Diary of Mirza Mahmud-i-Zarqani chronicling 'Abdu'l-Baha's Journey to America
Translated by Mohi Sobhani with assistance of Shirley Macias
In the spring of 1912, 'Abdu'l-Baha set off from Alexandria on His historic journey to America. Among his small entourage was Mirza Mahmud-i-Zarqani, who became, in the words of Shoghi Effendi, 'the chronicler of His travels.'
Mirza Mahmud went everywhere with 'Abdu'l-Baha, making extensive notes not only of the Master's many public talks and conversations with individuals, but also of the new sights and experiences they found in America as well as the daily routines of eating, writing letters and travelling. Mahmud remarks on the novelty of the New York skyscrapers, electric lights and American foods and customs for 'Abdu'l-Baha's party as well as the picturesque spectacle provided to the Americans by His entourage in their 'abas and Persian hats.