Description:

John Adams Ship's Papers Captain Captured twice By Brits in Rev War, Was in NY Prison Ship. Boldest Sig We've Encountered

A signed four language ship's papers for a ship bound for Havanna. 1p partially printed, measuring 19.75" x 16", New London, dated May 26, 1798. Boldly signed "John Adams" as President and countersigned by "Timothy Pickering" as Secretary of State and "J. Huntington" as Collector of Customs. The document grants permission to "Charles Bulkley master or commander of the Schooner called Harriet of the burthen of 102 tons or thereabouts, lying at present in the port of N London bound for Havanna and laden with Provisions, Lumber…" With a large white paper seal intact at the left and a red wax seal at the lower margin. Adams' signature is bold and large, measuring 3" x 0.75" in size. The document has flattened folds, with separations, holes, and chipping. Paper loss at the lower edge, affecting some of the handwritten text. The document has been professionally restored in places with archival paper and tape on the verso. Minor toning and staining throughout. With a large and bold signature unaffected by any paper loss or repairs.

Captain Charles Bulkley, (1752-1848) was born in Colchester and lived to the incredible age of 95 years and 2 months old. His fantastic history can be found here https://continentalnavy.com/archives/2021/charles-bulkley-lieutenant/  .His father, Major Charles Bulkley, was the son of Rev. John Bulkley, of Colchester, a divine of great eminence in his day, and grandson. of Rev. Gersham Bulkley, the second minister of New London. In the spring of 1775, Captain Bulkley had been on a peaceful trading voyage to the West Indies when he encountered an armed British vessel and was forced to surrender. It was during this capture that the American crew learned of the battle at Lexington and the start of the American Revolution. Bulkley was able to escape the vessel and was able to recapture his sloop by enlisting the aid of a local militia. Soon after, Captain Bulkley became a midshipman in the newly-formed American Navy and sailed under Commodore Hopkins. After the conclusion of the war, he returned to peaceful merchant service.

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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September 6, 2023 11:00 AM EDT
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