Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Massachusetts (1744–1814) who later served as vice president under James Madison. His name entered the language as a result of his support of politically advantageous redistricting, which became known as “gerrymandering.” ALS signed “E. Gerry,” one page both sides, 6.5 x 8, August 24, 1812. Letter to William Alexander. In part: "I regret exceedingly, that an accident, which I flatter myself you will excuse when informed of it, has prevented an answer to your letter of the 6th of April 1811. The number of letters which I received in that year is almost incredible… the secret journals of Congress to the year 1780 are in my possession & shall be delivered to your order; but I am under an obligation of form not to divulge the names of the secret agents you refer to, or of the woman, as she was the particular friend of Mr. Pinckney. Any information which I can give you, in your important pursuit, you will command freely.” In very good condition, with intersecting folds, scattered light toning, pencil notations to top of page, and mild show-through from text on reverse.
Espionage during the Revolutionary War was monitored and sanctioned by the Continental Congress to provide military intelligence to the Continental Army and aid them in fighting the British. The Congress created a Secret Committee for domestic intelligence, a Committee of Secret Correspondence for foreign intelligence, and a committee on spies, for tracking spies within the patriot movement. The Continental Congress, recognizing the need for secrecy in regard to foreign intelligence, foreign alliances and military matters, maintained "Secret Journals," apart from its public journals, to record its decisions in such matters. Gerry was among the men involved in such covert operations, and in 1775 decrypted a letter that implicated Dr. Benjamin Church, the Continental Army's chief surgeon, in espionage for the British. Interesting insight into the deep undercover work taken on by some patriots to help establish America's freedom. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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