Lot #7154

Francis Lewis Document Signed

Description

Extremely rare document from the New York signer, petitioning the release of slaves in 1746—"the said Spanish Mulattos should have their freedoms"

Signer of the Declaration of Independence from New York (1713-1802). Rare manuscript DS, signed “Fran's Lewis,” one page, 9 x 14, October 16, 1746. A petition issued by Francis Lewis, Jasper Farmer, and Thomas Barnes, and directed to "His Excellency The Hon'bll George Clintn, Esq., Captain Generall & governor in Chief of the Province of New York & Territories thereon," in part: "His Majesty's Advocate General of this Province Proffered a Memorial to the said Court of Vice Admiral Alleging that the said Spanish Mulattos were claimed by the Governor of Havannah as Freemen. That thereupon, the Judge of the said Court, in Consideration that your petitioners has purchased under a decree of the said court, and that the purchasers of sundry other Spanish Mulattos at Rhode Island, in the Like Circumstances, having been repaid their purchase money by the Colony. Did Order, That the said Spanish Mulattos should have their freedoms on your petitioners being repaid their purchase money." Signed at the conclusion by Lewis. In fine condition, with tape reinforcement on the reverse to separation to the central horizontal fold. From the Collection of Dr. Lawrence E. Miller.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: The Lawrence Miller Collection
• Dates: #1008 - Ended May 21, 2020

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