Autographs
1726 “Oath” By Future New York Governor George Clarke
GEORGE CLARKE, Colonial Royal Governor of New York.
February 8, 1726-Dated, Rare Early Colonial Autograph Document Signed, “Geo. Clarke” as Secretary of the Colony, 1 page, measuring 6” by 8” at Queen’s County, New York, Very Fine. By virtue of the power and authority vested in him by His Excellency the Governor, Clarke writes that he has, “administered the Oath of an Administratrix to Sarah Cornwall” for the estate of her deceased husband Richard.

George Clarke (1676-1760) was also known as George Clarke of Hyde. He became Secretary of the Province of New York in 1703. Along with his wife, Anne Hyde, he purchased land in Hempstead, Long Island, New York and built an estate called Hyde Park.

He subsequently became Acting Colonial Governor of New York starting in 1736, when William Cosby died, lasting until 1743 when George Clinton arrived to replace Cosby. Clarke then had the post of Lieutenant Governor until 1747.

In 1741, Clarke was involved in putting down the “New York Conspiracy” of 1741, with African Slaves being responsible for a series of arsons in March 1741, trying to burn down the City of New York. On his return journey to England along with his fortune amassed whilst in America, he was captured by a French Ship. After a short time he was released. He died in Chester, England, on 12 January 1760, aged 84.