Lot 245
Ellery, William (1727-1820) Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Rhode Island. Autograph letter signed ("Wm Ellery"), 1 page, 9¾x8", Worcester, March 23, 1815. The closing and signature were removed but skillfully reaffixed without loss. Integral leaf is addressed in Ellery's hand to Miss Philadelphia Ellery in Providence, Rhode Island. Ellery expresses pleasure "that Belinda is willing…to live with us when peace shall take place," and complains that the bad weather makes it hard to fix a date for his arrival at Providence, but he outlines plans for their rendezvous at Newport: "Your brother W., wife and daughter attended by Edward Channing arrived at Newport last Saturday….Be yourself at Providence as soon as you conveniently can…." He gives news of other family members and notes, "Mr. Timmy has gone again to Hartford, and does not mean to live at Newport, the air there not suiting his health so well as that of the country…."
This letter was written not long after the signing of the Treaty of Ghent (December 1814). Because Newport and the coast of Rhode Island were vulnerable to naval attack, many familiies temporarily relocated inland during the War of 1812. Ellery's home and lands were plundered during the War. He was named by Washington to the lucrative post of Collector of Customs for the port of Newport, a post he maintained until his death in 1820.
Estimated Value $1,200 - 1,500.
Ex Christie's.
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