George Washington Document Signed as President
Three-language ship’s paper for a West Indies trade voyage, boldly signed by President Washington
Partly-printed DS as president, signed “Go: Washington,” one page, 12.75 x 9.5, March 9, 1795. Three-language ship's papers issued to "William McIntire, master or commander of the Sloop called the Delia…lying at present in the port of Savannah, bound for the West Indies, and laden with Tobacco, Rice and Shingles." Boldly signed in the center by President George Washington and countersigned by Secretary of State Edmund Randolph. The white paper seal affixed to the lower left side remains intact. Handsomely matted and framed with a portrait (featuring a facsimile signature) and plaque to an overall size of 28 x 17. In fine condition, with light scattered staining.
Providing proof of the nationality of the ship's owner, should the vessel be stopped by a foreign power—especially important following Washington’s Neutrality Act of 1794, solidifying America’s relationship with France—ship’s papers were crucial documents, vital to the success of international trade. This ship's paper, sending an American sloop on a trading voyage to the West Indies, is both highly desirable and historically significant.
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Three-language ship’s paper for a West Indies trade voyage, boldly signed by President Washington
Partly-printed DS as president, signed “Go: Washington,” one page, 12.75 x 9.5, March 9, 1795. Three-language ship's papers issued to "William McIntire, master or commander of the Sloop called the Delia…lying at present in the port of Savannah, bound for the West Indies, and laden with Tobacco, Rice and Shingles." Boldly signed in the center by President George Washington and countersigned by Secretary of State Edmund Randolph. The white paper seal affixed to the lower left side remains intact. Handsomely matted and framed with a portrait (featuring a facsimile signature) and plaque to an overall size of 28 x 17. In fine condition, with light scattered staining.
Providing proof of the nationality of the ship's owner, should the vessel be stopped by a foreign power—especially important following Washington’s Neutrality Act of 1794, solidifying America’s relationship with France—ship’s papers were crucial documents, vital to the success of international trade. This ship's paper, sending an American sloop on a trading voyage to the West Indies, is both highly desirable and historically significant.
Estimate
Time, Location
Auction House
