ADS, signed “Go: Washington,” and again in the text “Geo: Washington,” one page, 14.5 x 9.25, April 6, 1775. An account remitted by Washington to his friend and neighbor, George William Fairfax, labeled along the top, “The Hon Geo Wm Fairfax Esqr in acct with Geo Washington.” Washington writes to Fairfax about expenses and income incurred from June to December 1774 for the sale of goods at and rental of Fairfax's estate, Belvoir. Among the itemized list is “To Blank Bonds & Bill for your sale at Belvoir…£0.50. To Cash sent to the Annapolis Printer Advertizing Belvoir & the Sale of Goods there…2.8.0.” Professional reinforcement along reverse of horizontal folds and central vertical fold, scattered toning and soiling, repaired tears to lower corners, a few edge chips, a few small spots of ink erosion, and light show-through from docketing on reverse, otherwise very good condition.
George William Fairfax, a member Virginia’s elite, inherited the Belvoir estate down river from Washington’s Mount Vernon home in 1757 and met the future president shortly thereafter. With his wife Sally (the rumored love of Washington’s life), he built up a strong friendship with George and Martha that lasted until his death decades later. When business forced Fairfax to England in 1773, he granted Washington power of attorney and designated him to look after his interests at Belvoir. Seeing to their affairs, Washington sent this account as the skirmishes of the American Revolution were about to give way to all-out battles; just two months later, he took his place as unanimously elected Commander-in-Chief of the Continental Army. Among the transactions indicated in his balance sheet—payment for advertising to rent the mansion, purchases for sundries, etc.—Washington notes the sale of a carpet to Dr. Craik, his friend and personal physician who remained at his side until his dying day. Though the Loyalist Fairfaxes never returned from England, Washington maintained correspondence with them throughout his life. This exceptionally rare twice-signed document holds strong personal connections, and marks the end of ordinary life and the beginning of the war that earned Washington his place as America’s first president. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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