James Madison passport 1808 for a courier

James Madison Passport Courier
Presented before you is a truly exceptional historical artifact—a rarely encountered partly printed Document Signed (DS), measuring 8.25 x 10 inches, with a significant date of February 20, 1808. During his tenure as Secretary of State, James Madison penned a personal passport, a testament to the esteemed William Lewis, an officer of the United States Navy entrusted with official dispatches.

Hence, we are talking here about an early courier passport of the United States of America. More about the history of the U.S. Courier Service at the end of the article.

William Lewis, Officer of the U.S. Navy

Within the carefully crafted language of the document, Madison certifies Lewis as a citizen of the United States and extends a plea to all concerned parties. The plea is one of dignity and authority, urging unrestricted passage for Lewis in the pursuit of his lawful duties, “freely and without let or molestation in going, staying, or returning.” The document culminates with Madison’s bold signature, an indelible mark that adds gravitas to the historical narrative it encapsulates.

Reverse with wax seals James Madison Passport Courier

The document’s historical integrity is evident with an intact paper seal on the left side. Two wax seals adorn the reverse. Endorsements by eminent French and English officials provide tangible connections to the diplomatic intricacies of the time. James Madison Passport Courier

This remarkable piece is tastefully presented in a double-matted and framed display alongside a portrait, creating an arresting visual ensemble measuring 32 x 19 inches. Notably, the unfolding presentation allows for a comprehensive view of all pages, with a discreet window in the backing, inviting observers to delve into the intricate details and endorsements on the reverse.

It is a rare opportunity to engage with (passport) history, appreciating the delicate threads that weave together in this unfolded tableau of diplomacy and personal identity.

The Passport James Madison Passport Courier

This document was sold in October 2014 for only USD$1145.

Brief History of the U.S. Diplomatic Couriers

1776: Inaugural American Dispatch Bearer

On July 10, 1776, Captain Peter Parker became the first diplomatic courier, sailing the U.S. brig Dispatch to convey confidential correspondence to France.

1776-1914: Evolution of the Dispatch Agent System James Madison Passport Courier

For almost 140 years, spanning from 1776 to 1914, the U.S. Department of State employs a network of “bearers of dispatch” (reflecting the spelling conventions of the time) and forwarding agents to facilitate the movement of sensitive documents. These bearers, comprised of reliable American travelers such as lawyers and merchants, embody trustworthiness in their crucial role. Simultaneously, forwarding agents orchestrate deliveries by compensating ship captains for their services.

1851: Pioneering Female Bearer of Dispatch

In 1851, Matilda Frye, with her husband, becomes the first female dispatch bearer, hired to carry a treaty from Peru. This moment is a significant individual achievement and contributes to the evolving diplomatic landscape.

Read the full history at https://afsa.org/us-diplomatic-couriers-historic-timeline

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