This is an original letter (it's real deal--this is NOT a reproduction) that was folded after it was written and taken to the post office by the writer and mailed.  It is a "stampless folded letter."  You are purchasing both the postal portion and the letter portion.

ONE of the reasons it is collectible is because of the fact that  the local postmaster applied postal markings considered appropriate for the letter's journey.  In addition to being collectable becasue of the content of the letter, or the writer, or the addressee, it is a collectable item of postal history because of the rates, markings and usage.

Worn but readable and historic letter with a brown "NEWBURY MS" circular datestamp on a three page letter dated "April 16, 1811 Dummer Academy" - wow The Governor's Academy--the oldest continually-operating boarding school in the United States.

Addressed "George W. Featherston, Esq., Duanesborough, N. Y." with a "17 rate" for the 151 to 300 mile distance under rates of 3/2/1799.

Saluted "My Dear Sir"

Signed "Benj. Allen."

Docketed by the addressee "Dr. B. Allen, April 16, 1811, ans."

Content includes: "My numbers here are increasing.  I have seven boys and gentlemen, have applications for three more.  There is no doubt but that I shall succeed--one of the greatest objections to this place is that Mrs. Allen is not pleased it it.  I was yesterday informated that an Academy that presented advantageous terms to the Principal, in Germantown, near Philadelphia was in want of somebody to take charge of it.  Will you be good as to mention me to some gentlemen of your acquaintance in Philadelphia or Germantown..."

"Wile you may not personally know any gentlemen who have an influence over the Academy at Germantown--perhaps some one of your Friends may be."

Super nice and interesting and readable letter.  Some separations at the folds beginning with a rough opening from the wax seal.

All pages of the letter photographed here, but content is copyright reserved for the buyer and may not be reproduced by any means except for and by the purchaser of this item.

Terms and Conditions:

FREE United States of America Postal Service FIRST CLASS MAIL SHIPPING to the United States.

Uninsured International, including Canada, shipments are $5.00 for the first item and $2 or $3 extra for each additional item.  If you purchase multiple items, I will adjust the shipping charges when I send an invoice.

Postal insurance and/or registered mail for loss and/or damage protection will be an extra charge and offered only if specifically requested.  If this concerns you, please message me in advance of your purchase.

All international shipments that request registered mail (insurance generally unavailable) will be charged a flat $14 for this service.

The United States Postal Service has an excellent record with my shipments.

I have been a member of the American Philatelic Society since 1978 and have been selling on eBay for years.

Virginia buyers must pay our Governor's 5.3% sales tax unless you email a PDF of your resale certificate within 24 hours of the end of the auction.

Buy with trust and confidence.

Thank you for taking the time to view my items and make sure to review the other items in my eBay retail store, especially in this category.