David Crockett

Rare signature of legendary frontiersman and Alamo defender David Crockett

Frontiersman, politician, and folk hero (1786–1836) who became famous for his shrewd and humorous speeches; he was killed at the Alamo during the Texas Revolution. Rare ink signature, “David Crockett,” on an off-white 4 x 1.75 slip, clipped from the closing of a letter by Cave Johnson, a fellow Tennessee Representative, whose signature appears above Crockett's. Handsomely archivally mounted, cloth-matted, and framed with an engraved portrait of Crockett to an overall size of 11 x 14.5. In very good condition, with mild irregular toning. Accompanied by a full letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA. An important and difficult-to-acquire American signature.

David Crockett (August 17, 1786 – March 6, 1836) was an American politician, militia officer and frontiersman. Often referred to in popular culture as the "King of the Wild Frontier", he represented Tennessee in the United States House of Representatives and fought in the Texas Revolution.

Crockett grew up in East Tennessee, where he gained a reputation for hunting and storytelling. He was made a colonel in the militia of Lawrence County, Tennessee, and was elected to the Tennessee state legislature in 1821. In 1827, he was elected to the U.S. Congress where he vehemently opposed many of the policies of President Andrew Jackson, especially the Indian Removal Act. Crockett's opposition to Jackson's policies led to his defeat in the 1831 elections. He was re-elected in 1833, then narrowly lost in 1835, prompting his angry departure to Texas (then the Mexican state of Tejas) shortly thereafter. In early 1836, he took part in the Texas Revolution and died at the Battle of the Alamo. It is unclear whether he died in battle or was executed after being captured by the Mexican Army.

Crockett became famous during his lifetime for larger-than-life exploits popularized by stage plays and almanacs. After his death, he continued to be credited with acts of mythical proportion. These led in the 20th century to television and film portrayals, and he became one of the best-known American folk heroes.

David Crockett 1786 - 1836

Seraphin Gallery, Jenkintown, PA

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