Books and Manuscripts

Virginia, January 29, 1780. Partially-printed Commonwealth of Virginia Land-Office Treasury Warrant, made out to Revolutionary War officer and surveyor, George Rogers Clark, for 560 acres of land "for Recruiting his Batalion & in lieu of the bounty of 750 dollars." Printed with engraved border; red wax seal, upper left. Minor soiling at bottom. 6 3/8 x 8 1/8 in. (162 x 206 mm). Lot includes an engraved portrait of Clark.

George Rogers Clark (1752-1818), known as the "Conqueror of the Old Northwest", was an American surveyor and militia officer during the American Revolution. He fought with distinction while leading the Virginia militia during the Illinois Campaign in the North-west Frontier, leading to the seminal captures of Kaskaskia in 1778, and Vincennes in 1779, which greatly weakened Britain's foothold in the North-west Territory. For his efforts at recruiting troops, and in honor of his service, Virginia granted him large tracts of land, attested to in this fine document.