Lot 221
Washington, George (1732-99) 1st President of the United States (1789-97) Autograph Letter Signed "Go: Washington," twice, once at the end of the letter and once on the holograph address leaf, 1p, 9x7¼", Mount Vernon, 5 Mar. 1786. Very good; overall toning; partial separation at both edges of center fold; minor edge chips. Written to Patrick Henry, who is referred to as "His Excell.y The Governor" on the letter and "His Excelly Patrick Henry - Governor &c Richmond" on the address leaf.
Washington writes: "Sir, Your Excellency's favor of the 6th ulto came duly to hand, but I had no opportunity before the 2d inst. of laying it before the Directors of the Potomack Company. By the board, I am desired to inform your Excelly, that they decline taking the six felons in the public goal, at the same time that they feel themselves obliged by the offer.…"
During the years after the Revolutionary War, Washington spent much of his time rebuilding Mount Vernon, which had suffered during his absence. He also served as president of the Potomac Company, begun in 1785, whose purpose was to plan, design, and construct a canal on the Potomac River. Washington and his Board of Directors made all of the decisions, having no American civil engineers to aid them. Here Washington refuses the offer of prison labor to work on the canal.
Estimated Value $27,000 - 33,000.
Byron Reed Collection, Christie's, 8 Oct. 1996, Lot 225.
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| Realized $34,500 |
