Description
Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Massachusetts (1744–1814) who later served as Vice President under James Madison. His name entered the language as a result of his support of politically advantageous redistricting, which became known as “gerrymandering.”
Autograph letter signed “E Gerry” AS VICE PRESIDENT, August 7, 1813, 7.5×9.5, Baltimore, addressed “Dear Elbridge”, almost certainly his son Elbridge Gerry Jr., in full:
I shall in a few minutes be in the stage; & will leave with Mr. Michetts a letter to Governor Tompkins. You will be much pleased with Mr. Hughes & with all his family.
In very good condition. Edge tear at left side, approximately 2″, folds, else fine.
Gerry is almost certainly referring to Governor Daniel Tompkins of New York – who would later succeed him as Vice President as James Madison did not fill the position after Gerry’s death on November 23, 1814.
Provenance: last sold by Diana J. Rendell Autographs in 1985.
