Lot 26
Washington, George. (1732-1799) First President of the United States; Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army. Autograph letter signed ("Go: Washington"), 1 page, on laid paper, 9 x 7 ½", Mount Vernon, Oct. 27, 1799. Written less than two months before Washington's death to William Hartshorne (1742-1816), a Quaker merchant in Alexandria. Docket on verso. Light toning and a few wrinkles. Affixed at top corners by small bits of old tape to slightly larger board, affecting nothing; several small fold reinforcements to folds on verso. Washington's handwriting did not deteriorate with age and his signature is a lovely example.
Washington writes: "Your favor of the 23d inst.t was not received until last night. For the information it gives concerning the suit of Mr. T. Herbert, I thank you. I hope he will acquiesce in the decison, though unfavourable to his wishes; and no longer give trouble to others, and expence to himself, in prose[c]uting it. With esteem & regard…."
William Hartshorne was also treasurer of the Potomac Company, created in 1785 to make improvements to the Potomac River and to improve its navigability. Washington served as the company's first president and was an investor.
This letter has remained in the Hartshorne family since 1799. A handwritten genealogy of the Hartshorne family, back to William Hartshorne's father, accompanies the letter. $6,000 - 8,000
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| Realized $16,200 |
