Description:

Stephen Decatur
Norfolk, VA, July 11, 1816
Stephen Decatur 1816 ALS Handsomely Framed
ALS

Stephen Decatur (1779-1820). Handsomely displayed autograph letter signed "Stephen Decatur" by the famed Naval Officer of the early American period displayed beside an engraving of Decatur by Alonzo Chappel in a giltwood frame. Letter is 1p, 8" x 10", Norfolk, July 11, 1816; framed to an overall size of 22" x 17.5". Not inspected outside of frame, letter appears to display toning and isolated areas of discoloration, transmittal folds, and small pin holes in each corner, else paper appears crisp and signature bold.

Stephen Decatur was an early hero of the United States Navy, writing here at the height of his distinguished Naval career. He played an integral role as Navy officer during the First Barbary War and the War of 1812. By 1816 when this letter was written, he had just returned from the Mediterranean where, as the commanding officer of a ten-ship squadron, he successfully negotiated an end to the Second Barbary War, settling the Mediterranean maritime troubles that had plagued American commerce for two decades. Just a few months prior to the writing of this letter, Decatur was celebrated in Norfolk, Virginia, with a dinner in his honor. The letter presented here concerns allowing the recipient, Mr. Edward L. Young, Esq., and a Mr. Adams use of a ship for a survey project.

Transcribed in full:

"Norfolk July 11th, 1816

Sir,
To the end that the survey on which you, in conjunction with Mr. Adams have been ordered, should be carried into effect without hindrance. It has become necessary that the dispatch, (she being the vessel on which your opperations [sic] will mainly depend) should be entirely under your directions. You with Thorpe [?] assume the command of said vessel, for the period of the survey.

Your able svt [?]
Stephen Decatur

Edward L. Young Esq"

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: 22" x 17"
  • Medium: ALS

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