2004-09
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/31/2004
William Ellery (1727-1820) came from a distinguished Rhode Island family, and only stepped out into public life during the Stamp Act crisis, joining the Sons of Liberty and leading a march through Providence in opposition. He told the crowd: "You must exert yourself. To be ruled by Tories, when we may be ruled by Sons of Liberty - how debasing...There is liberty and fire enough; it only requires the application of the bellows. Blow, then, a blast that will shake this country." Ellery started his own legal practice in 1770 and went on to gain prominence. However, great events decreed that he would only practice law from 1770-1776. In May 1776, he was chosen as delegate to the Continental Congress, and took his seat on the 14th of the month. He became an influential member of that body, serving on a number of important committees. During this session he signed the Declaration of Independence, and he was accustomed in later years to relate the incidents connected with that event. "I was determined," he said, "to see how they all looked as they signed what might be their death warrant. I placed myself beside the secretary, Charles Thomson, and eyed each closely as he affixed his name to the document. Undaunted resolution was displayed in every countenance." During the British occupation of Rhode Island, Ellery's house was burned and much of his other property destroyed. Thus, it was not an empty gesture when he signed the great Declaration, pledging America his life, his fortune and his sacred honor. He continued a member of Congress until 1786 and then served as a Rhode Island official. In 1790 he was appointed by President Washington customs collector at Newport, a post he held for 30 years. Silver pocket watch, 2-1/4”, manufactured by Robert Hartwell of London, engraved on back “Formerly the property of Wm. Ellery a signer of the Declaration of Independence from Newport, R.I.” Fine.
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