George Washington Society of the Cincinnati Membership Certificate Signed

George Washington Society of the Cincinnati Membership Certificate Signed "Go:Washington" as the society's president and countersigned by Henry Knox ("Knox") as secretary. One page, 21.25" x 14.5", Mount Vernon, Virginia, May 5, 1784. This document announces "John Hollinsheada Major in the late Armies of the United States," as a member of the select society. A patriotic organization with strict entrance rules, the Society of the Cincinnati only allowed entrance to officers from the Continental and French armies who served at least three years or were officers at the time of the war's end. After that, membership was passed down to the eldest son. Washington was the society's first president and Knox, who likely originated the concept of the society, was its first secretary.

The society took its name from the Roman farmer Lucius Quintus Cincinnatus, who secured complete control of Rome during a military emergency. Once that emergency was over, Cincinnatus returned control to the Roman Senate and went back to his farm. The motto of the society - "He gave up everything to serve the Republic" - reflects this tradition.

Condition: This certificate is backed with linen Although the engrossment has faded, both the Washington and Knox signatures remain clearly there. This document in particular is known as one of the most beautiful signed documents by George Washington the First commander and chief.

Major John Hollinshead, Original Member, admitted 1784. Began his service in the Revolutionary War as 1st Lieutenant in the 2nd Regiment New Jersey Line on 28 Oct 1775. 1st Lieutenant 29 Nov 1776. Captain on 5 Feb 1779. Major of the 3rd Regiment New Jersey on 4 Aug 1779. Transferred to the 2nd New Jersey on 1 Jan 1781. Resigned from service on 27 Nov 1781. Born 28 Jun 1748 and died in Jun 1798. Sheriff of Burlington County, NJ.

With One of a Kind Collectibles LOA

Auction Notepad