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ROBERT MORRIS SIGNS A NORTH AMERICAN LAND COMPANY

ROBERT MORRIS (1734-1806). Robert Morris, known as "The Financier of the American Revolution," was a Signer of the Declaration of Independence, the Articles of Confederation and the U.S. Constitution. He served in the Senate and established a business with John Nicholson to speculate in Western lands. The demand, however, was not what Morris had hoped, and he eventually went bankrupt, spending 1798 to 1801 in debtor's prison. Partially Printed Document Signed, "Robt. Morris." One page, 12 1/2" x 9 5/8". Philadelphia. May 28, 1795. The document reads, in part: "This is to Certify that John Barker Church is entitled to give shares in the entire property of the North American Land Company … Transferable only at the Company's Office … Robt. Morris." John Barker Church fled to America from England following a duel in his home country. Church, who was also known as John Carter, quickly became successful in America. After serving as Emissary General to George Washington during the Revolutionary War, Church, along with Robert Morris and Jeremiah Wadsworth, founded the Bank of North America in 1781 at Philadelphia. Interestingly, Church, like his brother-in-law Alexander Hamilton, faced Aaron Burr in a duel, although in this case neither participants shot hit its target. A boldly signed Robert Morris document with a fine association to another prominent figure in America's early financial history. Scalloped left edge. Minor paper loss at right edge. Two pinholes, neither affecting Morris' signature. Three pinholes, one lightly affecting Morris’ signature. Tape repair to verso at start of Morris' signature. Else Fine.