Details:

John Murray, 4th Earl of Dunmore autograph on a clipped section removed from a larger document. Murray has boldly autographed "Dunmore" beneath the Latin phrase "Anno Regni D[omi]ni Regis" and the date "Annoq[ue] D[omi]ni 1766." A substantial original red wax seal remains affixed beside the autograph.

The fragment measures approximately 9 x 2.5". Good to fine condition with expected age toning, irregular edges from removal from the original document, creasing and paper loss at the left edge, minor handling wear, and wear to the original wax seal. The autograph remains bold and clearly legible.

John Murray, 4th Earl of Dunmore (1730–1809) was a British colonial administrator and the last royal governor of Virginia, serving during the turbulent years immediately preceding the American Revolution. Previously governor of the Province of New York, Dunmore became governor of Virginia in 1771 and led colonial forces during Dunmore's War against the Shawnee in 1774. As tensions with the Patriot movement escalated, he fled Williamsburg in 1775 and attempted to maintain royal authority from British warships. In November 1775, Dunmore issued his famous proclamation offering freedom to enslaved people belonging to rebel masters who escaped and joined British forces, one of the most consequential proclamations of the Revolutionary era. Forces under Dunmore subsequently fought Virginia Patriots at the Battle of Great Bridge in December 1775, where the British were defeated. His departure from Virginia marked the effective end of royal government in the colony, making Dunmore a significant figure in the events leading directly to American independence.

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

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Reference sku: 11695 1419204-1