Description:

Daniel Webster
n.p., n.d.
Daniel Webster FF Addressed to Marshfield, MA Neighbor
Free Frank
An original transmittal envelope free franked by New England politician Daniel Webster (1782-1852) as "Danl. Webster" in the postage section recto at upper right. N.d., n.p. Webster has also inscribed the envelope with his correspondent's name and town, as "John Ford Esq / Marchfield [sic] / Mass" near bottom center. A red hand-stamped postmark is barely legible recto near lower left. A red wax seal is located verso. Expected wear and weathering including isolated stains. Three pin holes are located recto along the top edge. Neatly letter-opened verso. Else very good to near fine. 5.125" x 2.875."

Among Daniel Webster's lesser known appellations was the "Farmer of Marshfield," referring to the town in Plymouth County on the southern shore of Massachusetts where he lived for several decades. Webster purchased a 100-acre property in Marshfield from Captain John Thomas in 1832, and by the next decade, he had increased its acreage to nearly 2,000 acres, made many agricultural improvements to the property, and constructed additional outbuildings, including a free-standing law office/horticultural library. Webster played the role of the "gentleman farmer," raising cattle, planting trees, and experimenting with fertilizing methods and aquaculture. Webster also hosted important diplomatic guests at his Marshfield estate.

Webster's correspondent was almost certainly John Ford, Jr. (1796-1881), a surveyor whose printed "Map of Marshfield, Mass. Surveyed by John Ford, Jr., 1838" shows Webster's property in the southwestern corner of the town. Ford was also a Justice of the Peace and a town representative in the Massachusetts state legislature.

Daniel Webster was one of the most revered politicians, lawyers, writers, and orators of his day. The Dartmouth College graduate represented New Hampshire and Massachusetts in the U.S. Congress before serving as 14th and 19th U.S. Secretary of State under the Harrison, Tyler, and Fillmore administrations. Webster's influence was secured during the 1830s, when he represented the Northern voice of the so-called "Great Triumvirate."

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 5.125" x 2.875"
  • Medium: Free Frank

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