United States and Worldwide Stamps, Covers, and Collections

John Laurence (1750-1810; US Politician), "Free John Laurence" frank, folded cover addressed to Nicholas Law, New York, "Free" handstamp and Philadelphia "JU 6" Franklin mark, Very FinernJohn Laurence was important, if lesser known, figure in the founding of the US. He began his career as a military officer serving for the Continental Army first as a lieutenant in the 4th New York Regiment and then as Captain and Paymaster in the 1st New York Regiment. He was later appointed Judge Advocate General where, among his many important cases, he handled the Charles Lee insubordination and Benedict Arnold's corruption cases. After the war, Laurence had a career in the legislative and legal arena, serving in 6th,7th, and 8th Continental Congresses. He was elected to the first US Congress in 1789 as a Federalist from New York's 2nd district. He became a Federalist US Senator in 1796 where and became President Pro Tempore in the US Fifth Senate. He would resign from his position in the Senate in 1800.Sale 3054: Session 3 - United States Stamps and Covers