47010: First Texian Loan Signed by Stephen F. Austin, B

First Texian Loan Signed by Stephen F. Austin, Branch T. Archer, and William H. Wharton "S. F. Austin," "B. T. Archer," and "Wm. H. Wharton." One partially printed page, 8.5" x 10.5", New Orleans; January 11, 1836. Certificate No. 393, it reads in part, "Received, of Thos. D. Carneal Thirty-Two Dollars, the First Instalment [sic] on a Loan of Three Hundred and Twenty Dollars, made by him this day to the Government of Texas for Five Years, bearing Interest at the rate of Eight Per Centum per Annum, payable annually..." With ornate borders and cancellation cuts. The Provisional Government issued these certificates to raise funds for the Revolution. They were redeemable for land at fifty cents per acre. This first loan for the Texian cause was for $200,000 and was subscribed by ten men: four from Cincinnati, two from Virginia, one from New Orleans, and three from Kentucky Ten percent of the amount was paid down with the balance to be paid upon ratification of the contract by the convention, which had been called for March 1st. Signing as "Commissioners on the Part of Texas" are Austin, Archer, and Wharton who had been appointed to lobby the United States for financial assistance, collect supplies, and recruit men for the Texas cause. They arrived in New Orleans in January 1836 and negotiated a series of loans. The three commissioners then proceeded up the Mississippi River, making numerous speeches before traveling to Washington, D.C. They were unable to persuade Congress to support their cause and returned home. During their trip, on March 2, 1836, Texas declared its independence. In November 1836, Texas President Sam Houston appointed Stephen F. Austin Secretary of State and William T. Wharton as first Minister to the United States. Branch T. Archer served in the First Congress of Texas and as Speaker of the House during its second session. Condition: Light uneven toning throughout, with flattened folds. The top edge is slightly rough. Usual "X" cut cancellation with triangular portion missing at center, not touching any signatures. Light ink spotting. The signature of "Th: D Carneal" on verso has bled through to the front. HID03101062020 © 2020 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved