Bligh was chosen by Sir Joseph Banks to command HMS Bounty on a voyage to Tahiti to collect plants of the bread-fruit tree. During a six-month stay on the island the men became demoralized, and on April 28, 1789, the first mate, Fletcher Christian, led a mutiny; Bligh and eighteen of his men were cast adrift in an open boat with a small stock of provisions and no chart. They reached Timor, in the East Indies, on 14 June, having traveled nearly 4000 miles. In 1805 he was appointed Governor of New South Wales, and was imprisoned by mutinous soldiers during the so-called Rum Rebellion. Exonerated of all blame, he was promoted admiral on his retirement in 1811. DS, signed 'Wm. Bligh, Capt,' one page, 8 x 12, March 14, 1798. Extremely rare request for provisions for Bligh's ship, the Director. Provisions include 2013 gallons of wine, 16 bushels of oatmeal, 1964 pounds of beef, 490 pounds of pork, 680 ponds of butter and water. Approved in the lower right corner by Bligh. Beautifully double suede matted and framed with a portrait of Bligh and a biographical plaque, to an overall size of 29 x 27. In fine condition, with light toning and soiling, expected document folds and a few light thumbprints. COA John Reznikoff/University Archives and RRAuction COA. Oversized.
