Auction Name: 2026 June 19 The John H. Freund Americana Collection Signature® Auction

Lot Number: 42090

Shortcut to Lot: HA.com/6331*42090

[James Monroe]. William B. Bulloch Autograph Letter Signed ("W. B. Bulloch"). One page, 7 1/4 x 8 7/8 inches; Savannah, [Georgia]; January 18, 1812.

William Bulloch, mayor of Savannah, corresponds directly with Monroe amid escalating tensions tied to foreign vessels in American ports. Bulloch pens, in full:

"Sir,

I herewith transmit you several additional documents on the subject of the late Riots in this City [not included with lot], and the burning of the French vessels.

You will perceive by reference to these papers that measures have been adopted with a view to ascertain and bring to punishment the persons concerned in that unfortunate business - It is very problematic, however, whether any other Individuals will be hereafter identified.

I have the honor to be Sir, with great Respect Yr. Ob. Sert.
W. B. Bulloch."

Bulloch reports from the immediate aftermath of unrest in Savannah that led to the burning of French vessels, forwarding documentation to the State Department as authorities attempt to respond. While measures have been taken to identify those involved, he expresses doubt that additional perpetrators will be discovered, pointing to the limits of enforcement in a volatile port environment.

Written on the eve of the War of 1812, the letter reflects the strain placed on American coastal cities as international tensions, particularly involving foreign shipping, spilled into local violence.

Condition: Overall good. Flattened folds with minor, even toning. Minor separations at the outer margins of folds, both fully reinforced with Japanese tissue on the verso, with one separation at lower right reopened. Small, closed tear just above upper fold, reinforced by tissue on the verso, with minor staining along the fold. Minor chip to bottom edge. Pencil notation beneath signature.

References: Spencer C. Tucker, ed., The Encyclopedia of the War of 1812: A Political, Social, and Military History (Santa Barbara: ABC-CLIO, 2012)

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