Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Maryland (1741–1811) and Associate Justice of the Supreme Court from 1796 until his death. Rare manuscript DS, signed “Sworn before Samuel Chase,” one page, 8 x 9.75, May 8, 1793. Sworn testimony of John Cunningham of Baltimore. In full: “I John Cunningham, do make oath, according to the best of my knowledge and belief, that the Brigantine called the Baltimore of Baltimore, burthen one hundred and fifty three tons, and which I at present command, is of the United States of America, and that no such subject or subjects of the present belligerent powers have any part or portion therein, directly or indirectly.” Signed at the conclusion of the statement by Cunningham, “J. Cunningham,” and certified by Chase as a witness. In very good to fine condition, with partial tape-repaired separations to toned horizontal folds and other expected document wear.
This document seems to relate to the Citizen Genet Affair, in which French ambassador Charles Genet began to issue privateering commissions to Americans, allowing them to seize British ships and cargo for personal profit under the approval and protection of the French government—this violated President Washington’s recent Proclamation of Neutrality, which declared that the nation would remain neutral in the ongoing conflict between France and Great Britain. In the present document, signed by Chase as Chief Justice of the Maryland General Court, Cunningham swears that his ship is uncompromised by foreign interests. Chase is one of the most difficult Declaration signers’ autographs to obtain, with this an being an especially desirable example due to its historical context. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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