Submitted by Chuck: My mom has passed along to me an item my late grandmother had in her possession. It appears to be an original receipt or promissory note from Thomas Jefferson’s estate. It is signed by Thomas Jefferson Randolph, the executor and it is in a frame that says “for the sale of one of Thomas Jefferson’s slaves.” Unfortunately, it does have a tear in the lower left hand corner where one would normally expect a signature. But Randolph signature appears on the reverse, where you would normally expect an endorsement.Also it says “for sale of a slave” on the frame, as you can see, but I see nothing on the note itself giving evidence of that.
If you can help Chuck identify and value this item he would appreciate it. Simply click on the comment button above.
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Very interesting historical item. If the item had reference to the purchase of a slave on the actual note then the value would increase significantly. Thomas Jefferson Randolph was the relative of Thomas Jefferson that was charged with settling Jefferson's estate. In its current condition and without the slave reference I would estimate its value at around $200. With the reference it woudl have been worth signficantly more.
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ReplyDeleteHey back to this -- I've since spoken with a prominent historian and he has actually tied this document to the sale of a particular slave of Thomas Jefferson's estate who was "sold" on this date to one of the names on the document. I can provide more details of course, but I'm curious how this verification might affect the value?
ReplyDeleteThanks,
Chuck