Auction Name: 2026 February 26 Historical Manuscripts & Texana Signature® Auction

Lot Number: 47167

Shortcut to Lot: HA.com/6328*47167

George Washington Clipped Signature. 6 x 2 inches, undated but circa 1770. Signature in a filing docket entirely in Washington's hand, reading, in full: "John Posey to G Washington / Lease."

John Posey was Washington's next-door neighbor at Mount Vernon and was known for gambling heavily, a habit that placed him in serious debt. Through the early 1770s, Washington made repeated efforts to ease Posey's financial strain, offering on several occasions to purchase Posey's land. Posey initially declined and instead leased the property to Washington for two years; a copy of one lease, dated April 3, 1770, is held at the George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon. By 1772, Posey's financial situation had deteriorated beyond hope, and he finally agreed to sell the seven-acre tract to Washington.

Condition: Expertly backed with archival tissue. Somewhat toned at margins; smoothed folds. Minor fading to Posey's name.

Include Thumbnail(s)