Partially printed DS as president, one page on vellum, 13.75 x 9.25, July 3, 1812. A document granting to Alexis Laframboise a large tract of land on the “Island of Michillimackinac” [in Lake Huron]. After years of ever-deepening political, diplomatic, and economic tension with Great Britain, the United States declared war on June 18, 1812, marking the official beginning of what would popularly become known as “Mr. Madison’s War.” Within days, British troops closed in on Michilimacinac (or “Mackinac”) Island, finally invading and forcing the surrender of American troops on July 17. The surprised American commander, Lieutenant Porter Hanks, had not even been alerted that war had been declared against Britain, and though no lives were lost, the capture of the island became a rallying point for American troops—and drove home the point that, despite Thomas Jefferson’s glib assertion, the consolidation of American power in North America was not just “a mere matter of marching.” Laframboise (born 1787), a member of the Métis culture of French-Canadian and Ojibwa ancestry, was one of the earliest settlers in the region. Attractively matted and framed with a portrait engraving to an overall size of 25.5 x 15.5. In fine condition, with usual folds, light scattered wrinkling, toning, and dampstaining (away from signature), and writing and signature a shade light, but still clear and fully legible. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA. Oversized.
