May 2024 Auction Ends Thursday, May 30th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/30/2024
Interesting lot of two documents signed by Grover Cleveland regarding the Spanish-American War. In the first, Cleveland signs an Executive Order establishing the neutrality of the United States. Dated 27 July 1896 on Executive Mansion letterhead, proclamation ''in aid of the enforcement of the neutrality laws of the United States'' is signed at conclusion, ''Grover Cleveland''. Single page on bifolium measures 8'' x 10''. Shallow folds, overall near fine. Proclamation was certainly directed at relations with Spain, with whom the U.S. would be embroiled in war less than two years later.
Second document is an autograph manuscript signed, entirely written in Cleveland's hand. Here, Cleveland reflects on the Virginius Affair, a dispute between Spain, the United States and Great Britain where Spain captured an American ship aiding the Cuban insurgency, killing 53 men aboard. Cleveland writes, ''The Virginius affair occurred in 1873 12 years before I became President. An American [?] was captured by the Spanish on a charge of filibustering. Her captain and some others taken on the patrol were executed at Santiago de Cuba. The matter caused extreme tension in the relations between the United States and Spain; and Spain ultimately paid an indemnity on account of what had occurred / Grover Cleveland''. Single page measures approximately 4.75'' x 5.75'' with uneven edges. Single fold and light soiling, overall very good. Accompanied by small magazine photo of Cleveland.
Grover Cleveland Lot Regarding the Spanish-American War -- Cleveland Signs an Executive Order in 1896 Establishing U.S. Neutrality & Also Reflects on the Virginius Affair in a Handwritten Statement
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