American teacher, soldier, postal worker, music historian, and activist (1842–1892). Born into slavery in Mississippi, he was freed in 1854 and during the Civil War enlisted in the 55th Massachusetts Volunteer Infantry. He became the first man of color hired by the Post Office Department, and succeeded Frederick Douglass as recorder of deeds for the District of Columbia. Partly-printed DS, signed “Jas. M. Trotter,” folded to 3.5 x 8.5, May 5, 1887. Deed of release from Christian and Eleanor Ruppert to William T. Harris, signed on the docketing panel by James Monroe Trotter as recorder of deeds for the District of Columbia. In fine condition. Encapsulated and graded by PSA/DNA as “NM 7.”
