Kearny, Stephen Watts

Proclamation. To the People of California. The President of the United States having instructed the undersigned to take charge of the civil government of California, he enters upon his duties with an ardent desire to promote as far as he is able, the interests of the country and the welfare of the inhabitants. ... The Americans and Californians are now but one People: let us cherish one wish, one hope, and let that be for the peace and quiet of our country. Let us as a Band of Brothers unite and emulate each other in our exertions to benefit and improve this our beautiful, and which soon must be our happy and prosperous home. ... S. W. Kearny, Brig. Gen. U.S.A. and Governor of California. Monterey, 1 March 1847



Broadside (12 5/8 x 8 1/2 in.; 320 x 216 mm). Text in parallel columns of English and Spanish; discolored and lightly worn at horizontal folds, with a bit of repair at margins. Red cloth slipcase, chemise.

Thomas W. Streeter (book label on verso; Parke-Bernet, 24 April 1968, lot 2516) — Harry J. Sonneborn (Sotheby Parke Bernet, 5 June 1980, lot 117)

Fahey 78; Greenwood 77; Streeter sale 4:2516; Wagner, California Imprints 6

First printing of the proclamation announcing the United States annexation of California, ordered by President James K. Polk. This proclamation is sometimes referred to as Kearny's "inaugural address"; it promises protection of religious and property rights, absolves California citizens from allegiance to Mexico, and expresses "the wish and design of the United States to provide for Califronia ... a free Government similar to those in her other Territories." Scarce: no copy has appeared at auction for fifteen years.