2008-09
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 8/31/2008
SLOAT, John Drake (1781-1867) was a commodore in the United States Navy and, in 1846, claimed California for the United States. In 1844 he was appointed to command the Pacific Squadron, and in 1845, as tensions with Mexico grew, he was instructed to land in Alta California and claim it for the United States if war broke out. Receiving a report of fighting on the Texas border while off Mazatlán, he raced north (the British were reportedly interested in California too), engaged in a skirmish called the Battle of Monterey, raised the flag over the Customs House at Monterey on July 7, 1846, and issued a proclamation announcing that California was now part of the United States. Partly-printed Document Signed, “John D. Sloat” 1p. oblong octavo, November 1, 1856, United States Navy Yard, New York, and reas “Received, from J. Geo. Harris, Purser United States Navy, Two hundred & twelve Dollars...” Fine.
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