Lot 19
Robert Morris goes to Debtors' Prison. Irregularly trimmed at top and bottom edges, and overall age toning. A remarkable document. (1734-1806) Revolutionary patriot and Signer of the Declaration of Independence. Helped finance the American Revolution.
WARRANT FOR THE ARREST OF ROBERT MORRIS. Partially Printed Document, accomplished in manuscript, One page, oblong Octavo, approximately 3½ x 13," Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, December 30, 1797. Issued by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for Morris' arrest on charges of "non-performance of a certain promise and assumption by the said Robert Morris to the said Blair McClenachan, made, as for his costs and charges by him about his suit in that behalf expended, whereof the said Robert Morris is convict as appears of record." After retiring from public office, having served as the Continental Congress' Superintendent of Finance and member of the Pennsylvania legislature and U.S. Senate, Morris' business ventures in East India and America ultimately failed, and he spent several years in the Prane Street debtor's prison at Philadelphia, where he was often visited by George Washington, whose Revolutionary Army he had supplied with arms. Morris was imprisioned from 1798 until the passage of the National Bankruptcy Act, enacted specifically to allow Morris' release in 1802. Though Morris did sign his name to the Declaration of Independence, he is known for having initially been opposed to separation from Britain. Morris and his wife remained close personal friends of George and Martha Washington.
Estimated Value $3,000-UP.
Ex Superior Gallery's Feb. 3, 1991, Auction, Lot #343.
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| Realized $6,900 |
