1891 George Washington Auction Catalog

Signed by Lawrence Washington, George Washington's heir. [1891 George Washington Letters Auction Catalog] Bound Catalogue No. 677 with prices realized, An Extraordinary Collection of Washington's Letters, Washington Relics, Revolutionary Documents and The Rarest Works on American History also Scarce American Portraits, Maps, and Views. To be Sold in our Book Salesroom Second Floor Tuesday and Wednesday, December 15 and 16, 1891 Afternoon and Evening Commencing at 2:30 P.M. and 8 P.M., each day. Catalogue compiled and Sale conducted by Stan V. Henkels, Thos. Birch's Sons, Auctioneers 1110 Chestnut St., Philadelphia. Measures 10.5 x 7 inches, Includes prices realized list at rear. . 135 years ago, Lawrence Washington, George Washington's heir, effectively swore away before a notary public the Washington family's rights to a portion of their inheritance: hundreds of artifacts, keepsakes, and important historical documents owned and signed by George Washington. Some of these were from the future President's childhood, some during his time as General, and others during the Presidency. Lawrence testified before a notary public that, "the articles offered by me in this sale as relics of General George Washington are genuine." Lawrence then requested that the sale catalog make clear that, "This catalog embraces all the relics of Gen'l Washington.... They [family members] have held nothing back for mementos, every item that was in their possession which had any relation to Gen'l Washington has been placed in this catalog, to be sold absolutely, without any reserve whatever." In other words, Spring house cleaning. Washington's heirs, over the course of 2 days, sold the remaining material he had passed down for generations and that had not been previously sold or gifted. With these declarations began the greatest sale of autographs, historical documents, and relics of the former General and President. The sale, conducted by Stanley Henkel in Philadelphia in April of 1891 was staggering, totaling 953 lots. Measures 10.625 x 7.25 inches. Contains 109 pages plus 5 pages addenda plus 7 pages with the auction prices realized.. Lot measures 10.75 x 7 x .375 inches for shipping purposes. The absence of a condition report does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections, or the conditions of aging. Photos may also act as a condition report. Please review all photos closely prior to bidding and ask further questions if so desired.