Partly-printed DS as president, signed “Go: Washington,” one page, 12.75 x 15.5, December 23, 1795. Three-language ship's papers issued to "Samuel Rolfe, master or commander of Brig'ne called the Edmund…lying at present in the port of Newb'yport, bound for the West Indies, and laden with Beef, Boards, Salmon, Rum, Linins, Dry fish, hoops…shoes, bread." Boldly signed in the center by President George Washington and countersigned by Secretary of State ad interim Timothy Pickering. The white paper seal affixed to the left side remains intact. Handsomely cloth-matted and framed with a portrait and plaque to an overall size of 32 x 27.5. In fine condition, with Washington's signature exceptionally crisp.
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 an American brigantine on a trading voyage to the West Indies, is both highly desirable and historically significant.
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