New York State Appointment certificate of Edward A. Mason as Hell Gate Pilot.
New York: April 15, 1847. A certificate, complete with seal, signed by R. E. Fenton and Chauncey DePew.
Hell Gate is a narrow part of the East River in New York City, the phrase taken from the Dutch 'Hellegat.' The name refers to the whirlpool that results from the currents, rocks and narrow channel and dangers to merchant travel through the area. Hell Gate Pilots were experienced and authorized by the state to navigate vessels through the channel.
Reuben E. Fenton was a merchant and politician, and governor of New York from 1865-1868. Chauncey Depew was an attorney, businessman and politician as well as US Senator from New York.
16 3/8 x 10 3/4", cream paper, original folds, gold seal with manuscript additions and signatures [with] signed and stamped swearing in page for the County Clerk's Office in New York County 8 1/2 x 7", cream paper, manuscript additions. Some folds are split with slt loss. Otherwise very good and an interesting piece of nautical history. Item #28447
Price: $450.00