Description:
Washington, George (1732-1799) Autograph Free Frank, pre-1781. Revolutionary war era free frank, single leaf outer envelope addressed in a large, clear hand to Washington's stepson, John Parke Custis (1754-1781),with fragments of the original red wax seal, housed in a custom cloth portfolio, some repairs, generally fresh, with minor mottling, old folds, 9 3/4 x 8 1/4 in.
Custis contracted typhus ("camp fever") at Yorktown while serving as Washington's aide-de-camp. At the age of twenty-six, he succumbed to the disease, leaving a young widow (twenty-three year-old Eleanor Calvert) and four children. The youngest two children were sent to Mount Vernon to be raised by the Washingtons. Despite inheriting more than 18,000 acres, Custis made questionable financial decisions, died intestate, and left debts that were not resolved until the death of his widow in 1811.
Provenance: The Estate of David Spinney.
Estimate $3,000-5,000
The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections or the effects of aging. Condition requests can be obtained via email (lot inquiry button) or by telephone to the appropriate gallery location (Boston/617.350.5400 or Marlborough/508.970.3000). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner Inc. shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.
Keywords
David Spinney, YorktownJohn Dorfman
Director, Books & Manuscripts
508-970-3293
Fine Books & Manuscripts
The Fine Books & Manuscripts department delivers scholarship, expertise, and attention to detail in appraisals, evaluations, and auctions of rare books and historically important material ranging from medieval manuscripts to presidential documents.