Washington, George | The Will of George Washington

Washington, George

The Will of General George Washington to which is annexed a schedule of his property directed to be sold. Alexandria: Printed from the record of the County Court of Fairfax, 1800

16mo (152 x 101 mm, untrimmed). Title-page toned. Original wrappers; somewhat discolored and stained, lower portion of front and rear wrappers chipped. Quarter green morocco slipcase and green cloth chemise.

First edition of Washington’s will: "In the name of God, amen. I, George Washington, of Mount-Vernon, a Citizen of the United States, and lately President of the same, do make, ordain and declare this instrument. …" On 9 July 1799, just six months before his death, Washington wrote his own will, which was probated in January 1800 at the County Court of Fairfax, and shortly afterwards printed in this pamphlet form in Alexandria. Perhaps the most notable feature of Washington's will is its provision for freeing his slaves and for his estate to provide for those "who from old age or bodily infirmities, and others who on account of their infancy, … will be unable to support themselves." Martha Washington signed the deed of manumission for her late husband's slaves in December 1800, and they officially became free on 1 January 1801.

PROVENANCE

Ann W. Hutchinson (contemporary inscription on verso of front wrapper)

REFERENCE

Celebration of My Country 145; ESTC W29703; Evans 39000; Howes W145; Sabin 101752