Lot 116
Thomas Jefferson (1743-1826, 3rd President 1801-09). Manuscript free frank "free Th. Jefferson" as ex-President on folded cover addressed in his hand to Messrs. Cummings & Hilliard in Boston, postmarked red "Charle. Va. May 7" Charlottesville Va. circular datestamp, 1826 receipt docketing, reinforced along top fold & two vert. file folds, Very Fine.Estimate $2,000 - 3,000.
One of the most well-rounded and influential Americans ever, Jefferson began as a lawyer and member of the House of Burgesses. Later, he was a Continental Congressman and a Signer of the Declaration of Independence, which he drafted. He subsequently served as the wartime Governor of Virginia, Minister to France, Washington's Secretary of State and Adams's Vice President. In 1800, he defeated Adams for President. His accomplishments include subduing the Tripoli pirates, who demanded ransom to let American ship pass unmolested, financing the Lewis & Clark expedition, waging an unsuccessful embargo against belligerent France and England, and purchasing the vast Louisiana territory from Napoleon. After he left office in 1809, he was deeply in debt, so the United States bought his personal library and used it to found the Library of Congress. His last great achievement was starting the University of Virginia, for which he designed both the buildings and curriculum. He died on July 4, 1826, the fiftieth anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
Realized: $3,250