Partly printed DS, signed “G: Washington,” one page on vellum, 18.75 x 13, May 24, 1784. A Society of the Cincinnati membership certificate issued to William Pratt. In part: “Be it known that William Pratt, Esq., Captain ... is a Member of the Society of the Cincinnati; instituted by the Officers of the American Army, at the Period of its Dissolution, as well to commemorate the great Event which gave Independence to North America, as for the laudable Purpose of inculcating the Duty of lying down in Peace Arms assumed for public Defence, and of uniting in Acts of brotherly Affection, and Bonds of perpetual Friendship.... I, the President ... have hereunto set my Hand at Mount Vernon....” The Society of the Cincinnati was founded in May 1783 as an exclusive fraternal organization for officers who had served at least three years in the Continental military, as well as high-ranking officers in the French military. (Membership was later offered to eldest male heirs of original members and, more recently, to descendants of officers who served during the Revolution.) Washington was elected as the first President General of the Society in December 1783 and served until his death in 1799, when he was succeeded by Alexander Hamilton. Countersigned by H[enry] Knox as secretary. Matted and framed with an image of Washington on horseback to an overall size of 37 x 23.5. In fair condition, with certificate mounted to heavy card, slight waviness, creases, soiling, small surface gouges and abrasions, filled-out portion of body faded and fuzzy but mostly legible, and somewhat irregular ink adhesion to Washington’s signature. The signature is nonetheless well contrasted and remains fully distinct. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA. Oversized.
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