Formerly Enslaved U.S. Senator Blanche K. Bruce Document Signed in his Capacity as Recorder of Deeds, Washington D.C. 1890

Blanche Bruce

Manuscript & Autographs

[African American] Bruce, Blanche Kelso. Manuscript legal document, dated 1890, signed by prominent African American senator and former slave Blanche Bruce. The document is signed by Bruce in his role as Recorder of Deeds office in Washington, D.C. Bruce, born enslaved in Virginia and later elected U.S. Senator from Mississippi, held this federal post during a period of narrowing Black political power, making documents signed in this capacity direct evidence of African American authority within the administrative state.

Bruce, Blanche Kelso, as Recorder of Deeds. Deed of Trust. Washington, D.C.: October 6, 1890. Two pages, one sheet accordion folded printed and manuscript legal document, signed in ink, recording a trust agreement between John M. Henderson and Waggaman & Pelling. The document sets forth terms of indebtedness secured by real property, including promissory notes, repayment schedule, interest obligations, provisions governing insurance and taxes, and conditions of default empowering trustees to act. The instrument includes notarization by Robert T. Morris and formal recording references, indicating entry into the District of Columbia land records. Bruce’s signature appears in his official capacity certifying the recording, with printed legal text supplemented by extensive manuscript entries in a consistent clerical hand.

Bruce’s tenure as Recorder of Deeds followed his national political career and made him one of the few Reconstruction-era Black federal appointees in Washington. The office itself held symbolic and practical importance, overseeing property documentation and legal instruments central to urban development and capital exchange. Documents such as this demonstrate a legacy of African American political leadership at a time when Black involvement in politics in the American South had been largely dismantled. Folded as issued with pronounced horizontal and vertical creases; moderate toning; scattered staining; small edge wear and minor fold separations with reinforcement; signatures strong and legible; overall good condition. A scarce document signed by a prominent Black Reconstruction-era politician.

Item #23080

Price: $1,500.00