Books and Manuscripts

A fine lock of President George Washington's hair, cut shortly after his first inauguration, and with superb provenance

(New York, circa 1789). Comprising approximately 27-plus strands of President George Washington's hair, measuring approximately six inches in length (152 mm). Includes a detailed letter of provenance, signed by Washington's descendant, William Lanier Washington (1865-1933); counter-signed by New York notary public, Joseph Steiner, dated February 11, 1921. Both lock and letter handsomely presented and mounted in navy blue gilt morocco solander box.

According to Lanier Washington's letter, this lock of hair was cut from Washington's head soon after his first presidential inauguration on April 30, 1789. From there the lock was given to his niece, Jane Washington, and upon her death, inherited by her son, Colonel George Corbin Washington, who then gifted it to his neice, Frances Washington, the youngest daughter of Bushrod Washington. Shortly before Frances's death in 1900 she bequeathed the lock to George Corbin Washington's grandson, and Lanier Washington's father, Major James Barroll Washington, who then passed it on to Lanier Washington.

A handsome presentation.

From the library of bibliophile and long-standing Grolier Club member David Allen Fraser (1911-2003).