Details:

Benjamin Stoddert autographed handwritten letter (ALS), dated August 17, 1787, from Georgetown, addressed to Robert Carter, Esq. Written and signed "Benj. Stoddert" in ink, with the original integral address leaf bearing manuscript docketing and remnants of a red wax seal.

Stoddert writes concerning the health of Mrs. Carter, apparently a member of the recipient's family, who had been traveling in hopes of improving her condition.

He writes, in part:

"As Mrs. Carter cannot write you by this opportunity, it may be some satisfaction to you to know, that she is no worse than when she came up – I wish I could say she had experienced much benefit from her trip."

Stoddert further reports that Mrs. Carter and the young ladies accompanying her are staying in Bladensburg, Maryland.

An interesting piece of early American correspondence written more than a decade before Stoddert became the nation's first Secretary of the Navy. The letter dates to the period immediately preceding the adoption of the United States Constitution, when Georgetown and the surrounding Maryland communities were developing into important centers of commerce and political activity.

The letter measures approximately 6.5 x 7.75 inches. Very good condition with original mailing folds, age toning, sminor edge wear, and remnants of the original wax seal on the reverse. Several small mounting remnants are present on the address leaf.

Benjamin Stoddert (1751–1813) was an American statesman, merchant, and the first United States Secretary of the Navy. During the Revolutionary War, he served in the Continental Army and subsequently became involved in commercial and land development activities in the Georgetown area. He played a role in the acquisition of land for the establishment of the new federal capital along the Potomac River.

In 1798, President John Adams appointed Stoddert as the first Secretary of the Navy following the establishment of the Department of the Navy. Serving until 1801, Stoddert oversaw the rapid expansion of the American naval fleet during the Quasi-War with France, helping establish the organizational and operational foundations of the modern United States Navy. His administration included the development of naval shipyards, the construction and acquisition of warships, and the establishment of a more permanent American naval force.

Authentication:
Includes a full letter of authenticity from JG Autographs, Inc.

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Reference sku: 11705 1419333-1