Handwritten endorsement, signed “F. S. Key,” on a partial manuscript DS, one page, both sides, 7.75 x 4, dated April 15, 1828. Partial document has two other endorsements, one which reads, in part: “of the within named Francis Scott Key his heirs & assigns according to the true intent thereof agreeably to the laws in such cases provided,” with the other endorsement stating a record in the “Land Records for Washington County.” Endorsed on the right side, “Isaac Robbins Trustee to F. S. Key.” Patriotically matted with a 1908 certificate from the Francis Scott Key Memorial Association to an overall size of 19.5 x 19.75. In very good condition, with light show-through from text on reverse behind Key’s signature and scattered light toning, soiling, and handling wear.
Key moved to Washington when he became district attorney for the District of Columbia, but relocated his family to Georgetown where he worked at his uncle’s law practice and lived in a Federal style house built by Thomas Clark until 1828. From this home, Key watched the British burning of Washington on August 24, 1814. Four days later, Richard West, his wife’s brother-in-law brought news that a family friend, Dr. William Beanes, had been seized and Key asked and was granted approval from President Madison to negotiate his release. Two weeks later, he witnessed the assault from a British ship and wrote “The Star Spangled Banner.”
After the war, Key spent his time enjoying his gardens at his home, but when work began on the C & O Canal he sold the property and moved to the southeast part of Washington City. These two endorsements relate to the purchase of this property as noted in the “Land Records for Washington County.” Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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