Lot 39
Washington, George. 1st President of the United States, 1789-1797.
Partly Printed Document Signed. One page, Oblong Folio, on parchment, n.p., May, 1784.
An elaborately decorated document issued by the Society of the Cincinnati to "John Wheel Wright Greaton" upon his admission into the Society. Organized May 10, 1783, before the Treaty of Peace was signed and before the British evacuated New York, the society was established with a charter stating three purposes: to preserve the rights and liberties for which its founders had fought, to promote the national honor and "dignity of the American Empire," and to reinforce the "cordial affection" among its members by providing aid and assistance to them and their families when in need. The first military beneficial society, The Cincinnati worked to influence Congress for pensions for surviving Revolutionary veterans. Original membership was limited to those officers who had served a minimum period with the regular (Line) American Army or Navy; or with the French forces under Rochambeau or deGrasse; those who had served to the end of the War as a Line Officer, resigned with honor after at least three years of service, and/or had been rendered supernumerary, or honorably discharged after three years of service (today, descendants of original members may also become members). George Washington served as The Cincinnati's President General from its inception until his death in 1799, and his signature graces this document in that capacity. Other well known original members were General Henry Knox (considered the Society's originator), Alexander Hamilton, Nathanael Greene, General Rochambeau and Admiral deGrasse.
Traditionally found with light signatures. Signature in our opinion on a scale of 1- 10 (10 being the best), is a 4. Document is darkened overall dark with some stains.
Estimated Value $4,000 - 6,000.
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| Realized $5,750 |
