Lot #246

Eli Whitney Autograph Letter Signed - "You will act [at] your own discretion relative to the Cotton"

Description

Eli Whitney writes to his brother, instructing him to use "your own discretion relative to the Cotton belonging to me in your hands"

Important American inventor (1765–1825) remembered for developing the cotton gin, revolutionizing agriculture in the American South. ALS, one page, 7.5 x 9.25, July 25, 1809. Handwritten letter to his brother, "Josiah Whitney," in part: "Mr. Jonathan Hall has obtain an answer from his son George in the State of N. York informing him that he can take no part in the settlement of his Brother Leverett's Estate whereupon he has delivered to me the inclosed Letters to Judge Davis, to be forwarded to you; so that no obstacle now will probably remain to our immediate settlement of Leverett Hall's affairs…You will act [at] your own discretion relative to the Cotton belonging to me in your hands—do as you would if acting for yourself—ship it or sell it as you may judge most proper." Impressively cloth-matted and framed with a portrait and two plaques to an overall size of 24 x 20.5; the letter is hinged against the backing, with a window in the rear for viewing the address panel. In fine condition, with light staining to the address leaf.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts Featuring Revolutionary War, The War of 1812, and Civil War
• Dates: #695 - Ended July 10, 2024

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