(Miniature Book) Lincoln, AbrahamBiblio.com
[AMERICANA - Benjamin Lincoln]Biblio.com
Early American Wine Importation Certificate Signed by Benjamin Lincoln Continental Army General and Friend of George Washington
18044777Marblehead: Port of Marblehead 1804. Single loose leaf. Very Good. Import certificate manuscript and printed dated Oct. 20 1804 signed by Benjamin Lincoln as "B. Lincoln" in the blank titled "Collector." Measures 9.75" x 5". Blindstamped seal within printed decorated border. In addition the document is countersigned by Joshua Prentiss as "J. Prentiss" the blank titled "Inspector." Slight age-toning to edges else Fine. The certificate identifies a cask containing 52 gallons of wine was imported by Captain "Wm. J. Nath. Hooper" in the American vessel Joanna. Inspector Joshua Prentiss 1744-1837 served in the Revolutionary Army in Captain John Merritt’s company which was part of Col. John Glover’s regiment. The history of Benjamin Lincoln 1733-1810 in the War of Independence is well documented. After Yorktown "he assumed the office of Secretary of War under the new national government and held that position with distinction until October 1783" DNB. In 1789 after serving as Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts his friend George Washington appointed him Collector of the Port of Boston. During that tenure he produced the document at hand. Now enclosed in a removable clear archival sleeve with an acid-free backing. Port of Marblehead unknown
