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Lot #180
Declaration of Independence: Robert Morris

Morris writes from debtor’s prison to the man who put him there

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Description

Morris writes from debtor’s prison to the man who put him there

ALS signed “Robt. Morris,” one page, 7.5 x 9.75, April 6, 1798. Letter to John Nicholson. In full: “In order to prevent delay in Genl Forrests business I send herewith his Sundry letters of the following dates. Feby 26 & 28th – March 1st 9th 11th 11th 27th & 27th last. When you have done with, you will return them to yours &c. PS also one of the 27th Feby to you.” Addressed on the reverse in Morris’s hand to Nicholson.

In February 1795, a month before Morris left the Senate, Nicholson, Morris, and James Greenleaf organized the North American Land Company which would develop and sell six million acres of land (valued at 50 cents per acre) in Pennsylvania, Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, and Kentucky. The North American Land Company collapsed, plunging Morris into bankruptcy. On February 16, 1798, Morris was placed in Prune Street Debtors’ Prison, where he remained until August 26, 1801, when he was released after the enactment of the first federal bankruptcy law. In very good condition, with scattered toning and foxing, a couple small spots of ink erosion, and light show-through from address and docketing on reverse. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title:
  • Dates: #353 - Ended January 23, 2010





This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
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