Complete issue of The Pennsylvania Packet from September 19, 1789, printed and sold by John Dunlap and David C. Claypoole of Philadelphia, four pages, 11.25 x 18, containing Washington’s response to a congratulatory letter from the Pennsylvania legislature. In part: “The early and decided part which the Citizens of Pennsylvania took in behalf of the present system of government cannot be forgotten by the People of these United States…The virtue, moderation, and patriotism which marked the steps of the American People in framing, adopting, and thus far carrying into effect our present system of Government, has excited the admiration of Nations; and it only now remains for us to act up to those principles, which should characterize a free and enlightened People, that we may gain respect abroad and ensure happiness and safety to ourselves and to our posterity.” In very good to fine condition, with small splits at edges and partial separation to the adjoining fold. John Dunlap began the publication of the weekly Pennsylvania Packet in 1771, and in 1784 it became the first successful daily newspaper in America; it was also the first to publish Washington's famed ‘Farewell Address.’ Dunlap is also known as the publisher of the first copies of the Declaration of Independence in 1776.
