Session IV
Other Documents
1628. Colombia,
New Granada Waste Land Certificate for 320 hectares, dated 1-6-1861, serial 6378. DP-1685. 8-1/16”
x 13-1/4” XF condition with three horizontal folds and staple holes in top left corner, bright, white paper. Estimate: $500-$750.
1629. Lot of 3 documents related to
USN Admiral David Porter (18131891), including pamphlet (1825), engraved portrait (1863) and signature (undated). Pamphlet: 6-1/4” x
10-1/2”; Portrait: 8-1/2” x 10-11/16”; Signature: 3-7/16” x 1-7/16” The pamphlet is
a printed compilation of letters by David Porter apparently defending his actions under a U.S. Naval court inquiry into what he called the “Expedition to Foxardo,” in which the Admiral overstepped his authority, while rooting out Caribbean pirates, by embarrassing the mayor of Fajardo, Puerto Rico, in the process. Porter effectively torpedoed his illustrious naval career by complaining to the press about the inquiry (this pamphlet being evidence of such), prompting the Navy to change the inquiry to a full-blown court martial. The pirates of the time period in question include such names as Gasparilla and Lafitte, and we note also that Porter’s base of operations was Thompson’s Island, modern-day Key West. Included with this lot is a typewritten history of the incident and background, with references for further study. The portrait (“likeness from a recent photograph”) and pamphlet show some handling and edge wear, but no major tears or stains, while the signature card has no wear. Estimate: $1,000-$1,500.
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