Partly-printed DS as president, signed “Go: Washington,” one page, 13 x 16, May 8, 1795. Three-language ship's papers issued to "Stephen Swett, master or commander of the Brig called Fairy…lying at present in the port of Charleston, bound for Bordeaux, and laden with Rice & Tobacco.” Prominently signed in the center by President George Washington and countersigned by Secretary of State Edmund Randolph. The white paper seal affixed to the left side remains intact. In very good condition, with chipping and old tape stains along the edges, and repaired fold separations (one passing through Washington's "G").
Providing proof of the nationality of the ship's owner, should the vessel be stopped by a foreign power—especially important following Washington’s Neutrality Act of 1794, solidifying America’s relationship with France—ship’s papers were crucial documents, vital to the success of international trade. This ship's paper, sending a ship to Bourdeaux at an important time in French-American relations, is both highly desirable and historically significant.
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