Lot #18

[James Madison] Official Treasury Department Printing of the Embargo Act

Description

Official Treasury Department circular with the text of the Embargo Act of 1813, signed by Acting Secretary of the Treasury William Jones, “W. Jones,” three pages on two adjoining sheets, 8 x 13.75, December 23, 1813. Headed "An Act laying an Embargo on all ships and vessels in the ports and harbors of the United States," the legislation was enacted by President James Madison during the War of 1812, prohibiting American ships and goods from leaving port and banning the import of commodities from the British Empire. The text of the act is followed by a Treasury Department statement, in part: "The necessary instructions for the collectors, under this act, are not yet ready for transmission; but will be forwarded as speedily as possible." Signed at the conclusion in ink by Acting Secretary of the Treasury William Jones. In fine condition.

Under this wartime measure, President Madison prohibited all U.S. ships from departing for foreign ports in an effort to prevent supplies from reaching the enemy and to protect American shipping from British and French interference. The embargo, however, caused significant economic disruption, especially in New England, and was widely unpopular.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Fine Autographs and Artifacts Ft. Rev/Civil War, and The Collection of Dr. Joseph Matheu Part 1
• Dates: #721 - Ended 07/09/2025