Details:

Stephen Girard handwritten letter signed (LS), dated June 6, 1819, from Philadelphia, addressed to C.[aesar] A.[ugustus] Rodney in Wilmington, Delaware. Written in a neat manuscript hand and signed "Stephn Girard" at the conclusion. Accompanied by its original integral address leaf, bearing postal markings and remnants of a red wax seal.

The letter concerns a legal matter involving the Collector of Customs at Wilmington, Delaware, and proceedings before the United States Circuit Court for the District of Delaware.

Girard writes, in part:

"Since I had the pleasure to see you, Mr. C. J. Ingersoll has wrote me a polite Note, for the purpose of requesting me to return him the Papers which I have communicated you."

He continues:

"Although I am confident that he will strictly comply with his promise, yet the crooked disposition of the Collector of your Port will perhaps throw some difficulties in entering Satisfaction in the Circuit Court of the United States for the District of Delaware. Please to give me your opinion on that Subject."

The recipient, Caesar Augustus Rodney (1772–1824), was a prominent Delaware attorney and statesman who served as United States Attorney General under Presidents Thomas Jefferson and James Madison from 1807 to 1811. He later served in both houses of Congress and as United States Minister to Argentina. Rodney was also the nephew of Caesar Rodney, the celebrated signer of the Declaration of Independence.

The letter additionally mentions Charles Jared Ingersoll (1782–1862), a prominent Philadelphia attorney, author, and former United States Congressman.

An interesting piece of early American legal and financial correspondence connecting three influential figures of the early republic. Written several years after Girard helped finance the American war effort during the War of 1812, the letter offers insight into his extensive business interests and involvement in federal legal proceedings.

The letter measures approximately 8 x 9.75 inches. Very good condition with original mailing folds, scattered age toning, and handling wear. The integral address leaf exhibits additional wear, including small tears, seal-related paper loss, and remnants of the original wax seal.

Stephen Girard (1750–1831) was a French-born American merchant, banker, financier, and philanthropist who became one of the wealthiest individuals in American history. Arriving in Philadelphia during the Revolutionary War, Girard established a highly successful international shipping and trading enterprise before expanding into banking and finance.

Following the expiration of the charter of the First Bank of the United States, Girard purchased its Philadelphia banking facilities and established his own private bank in 1812. During the War of 1812, he became one of the federal government's most important financial supporters, committing substantial personal resources and helping underwrite critical government loans when American credit was under severe strain. His financial assistance played a significant role in sustaining the American war effort.

Girard was also remembered for his extraordinary philanthropic activities, including personally assisting victims of Philadelphia's devastating yellow fever epidemic of 1793. Upon his death in 1831, he left a substantial portion of his fortune to charitable causes, most notably establishing the endowment for Girard College in Philadelphia, an educational institution for disadvantaged children.

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

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Reference sku: 11705 1419334-1