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Savage, Ezekiel, fl. 1824 [Certificate confirming the citizenship of John Harris, an African American]

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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04289 Author/Creator: Savage, Ezekiel, fl. 1824 Place Written: Salem, Massachusetts Type: Document signed Date: 23 October 1824 Pagination: 1 p. : Height: 33.6 cm, Width: 20.7 cm Order a Copy

Partially printed. Savage signs as notary public, confirming Harris's status as a citizen of the United States. Harris, born in Alexandria, Virginia, "is a free coloured man, now residing in said Salem and never has been under allegiance to any foreign Prince or States." Notes physical characteristics of Harris, including that he is five feet, six inches tall and 32 years old. Printed text indicates this document was implemented because "the Act of the Congress of the United States, 'for the relief and protection of American Seamen'" did not make provision for African Americans to obtain certificates of citizenship at the custom houses. With a covered seal.

Savage, Ezekiel, fl. 1824
Harris, John, 1792-?

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