Lot 289
Lee, Richard Henry (1732-94) Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Virginia. Lee was a delegate to the Continental Congress from 1774 to 1779. On June 7, 1776, he moved the resolution (seconded by John Adams) that led directly to the writing of the Declaration of Independence, which he signed, as well as the Articles of Confederation. He was in the Congress again from 1784 to 1789, serving as President 1784-85. From 1789 to 1792 he was a member of the U.S. Senate.
Revolutionary War-date letter signed ("Richard Henry Lee C.M.C."), 2 pages (single sheet), 9¼ x 7½ in., York, May 30, 1778. Paper loss at margin affects a few words of text but not the signature. From the Marine Committee to John Langdon (1741-1819), who had been appointed agent for the Committee on June 25, 1776. In part: "Inclosed here is a resolve of Congress [not present]…whereby you will find that the Ship on the Stocks at Portsmouth heretofore intended for one of 74 Guns is to be constructed to carry 56 Guns only upon two Batteries, that is to say Twenty Eight 24 Pounders upon the Lower deck and Twenty Eight 18 Pounders upon the upper Deck. We have determined to resume the building of this ship agreeable to the said resolve of Congress, and now direct that you employ the necessary Workmen for that purpose….We shall direct Captain Landais of our Navy to…assist you in Superintending the building of this Vessel, and as we consider [h]im as having great knowledge in constructing [an]d building of Ships of War, we doubt not you will find him a useful assistant. You will inform us from Time to Time what occurs as necessary for us to be acquainted with in this business and apply to the Navy Board at Boston who will furnish you with Money and every assistance in their power. They will also take proper measures for procuring guns, stores and other materials for this ship. You will please to exhibit your accounts with this Committee to the said Board whom we have directed to adjust and settle them…."
Estimated Value $3,000 - 4,000.
Remember When Auctions, Inc., July 18, 1998, lot 192.
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| Realized $6,300 |
