1848 Letter Signed by Earl of Bristol (Future 2nd Marquess Hervey) for sale

Original 1848 Autograph Letter Signed by the Earl of Bristol (Frederick William Hervey, later 2nd Marquess of Bristol), concerning charitable aid to the poor, including the donation of blankets, concern for the local fishermen, and a plan to provide warm clothing to the infirm.

This three-page letter, written from Harmer's Square on July 27, 1848, includes references to a Mr. Moffat and Mrs. Gourlay, and reflects the compassionate social values held by many members of the British peerage during the Victorian period. The letter is signed “Bristol” and annotated on the reverse with “Earl of Bristol” in the same hand.

A full transcription is included below. This letter would make an excellent addition to any collection related to British nobility, 19th-century philanthropy, or historical autographs.

Condition: Excellent overall with expected folds. Clear, bold ink. No significant damage.

Size: Approx. 6.5" x 8" folded sheet

Authentication: Guaranteed original and dated July 27, 1848.

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Full Transcription:

Harmer’s Square

July 27, 1848

My Dear Sir,

By this post I direct Messrs. Dorrington to send to you 6 pairs of blankets.

I thank you for your letter & mention of our truly valued friend Mr. Moffat. I shall accept his kind present with very great pleasure — present him my best regards when you write.

I am decidedly otherwise & hope soon to be talking with you on the state of the fishermen.

I am yours most truly,

Bristol

P.S. If you have any one in the old or infirm person to whom a little warm clothing would be acceptable, let me know. A flannel coat laid out by Mrs. Gourlay might be a great comfort in such weather — I will send you the money in a draft.

(Reverse: Earl of Bristol)

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Biography: Frederick William Hervey, Earl of Bristol (1800–1864)

Frederick William Hervey was born into British nobility in 1800. He held the courtesy title Earl of Bristol before succeeding his father as the 2nd Marquess of Bristol in 1859. A prominent Conservative peer, he was known for his charitable involvement and care for rural and coastal communities. He was the grandson of the eccentric and well-known Bishop of Derry, also an Earl of Bristol. This letter reflects his commitment to social welfare, particularly among fishermen and the poor.

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Historical Significance:

This letter is a rich example of Victorian peerage philanthropy, capturing a moment of social responsibility from a British noble during a time of economic hardship for working-class communities. The reference to blanket donations, personal charity via Mrs. Gourlay, and attention to the welfare of fishermen and infirm individuals provides a vivid window into the values and actions of the 19th-century British elite. Signed boldly as "Bristol," this piece holds value both for its autograph and its humanizing narrative of Victorian-era compassion.

1848 Letter Signed by Earl of Bristol (Future 2nd Marquess Hervey) for sale

1848 Letter Signed by Earl of Bristol (Future 2nd Marquess Hervey):
$142.50

Classic Cars For Sale

1848 Letter Signed by Earl of Bristol (Future 2nd Marquess Hervey) for sale

1848 Letter Signed by Earl of Bristol (Future 2nd Marquess Hervey): $142.50

Classic Cars For Sale

1848 Letter Signed by Earl of Bristol (Future 2nd Marquess Hervey):
$142.50