Description:

James Madison boldly signs a career naval officer's first commission

Partly-printed Document Signed, "James Madison," as President, 1 page, 12.5" x 8.25" on parchment, Washington, May 13, 1816, a commission appointing John Pope as a navy midshipman, countersigned, "B W Crowninshield," as Secretary of the Navy. Light to moderate toning along folds, minor creases, light foxing, two minor holes, one of which affects one letter in printed text, else very good with a crisp blind-embossed seal of the Navy Department at upper left.

John Pope (1798-1876) was born in Massachusetts and was appointed midshipman in 1816. During his lengthy career he served with Mediterranean, West Indian, Brazil, African and East India Squadrons. During the Civil War, he served in the Gulf Squadron commanding the U.S.S. Richmond and participated in the search for the C.S.S. Sumter in the Caribbean. In October 1861 he saw action at the Head of Passes at the mouth of the Mississippi River. In 1862 he was relieved of duty due to ill health. He retired with the rank of commodore.

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December 15, 2015 10:30 AM EST
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