Sep 15, 2011 - Sale 2253

Sale 2253 - Lot 336

Unsold
Estimate: $ 15,000 - $ 25,000
A DOCTOR CARING FOR THE WASHINGTONS AND THEIR SLAVES (WASHINGTON, GEORGE.) Craik, James. Doctor's bill for two years of service to "His Excell'y George Washington Esq." Autograph Document Signed twice as "Jas Craik" on final page. 4 pages, each 13 x 8 inches, on one sheet; worn at folds with tasteful repairs, moderate fading and faint dampstaining. In 1/2 morocco tray case. [Virginia], 1786-89
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Additional Details

James Craik (1730-1814) was George Washington's personal physician. This extensive account includes entries for 144 distinct services provided to Washington, his family, and his slaves during the period shortly before his election as the nation's first president. While Washington was in Philadelphia for the Constitutional Convention for some of this period, the services were performed in Mount Vernon. The account lists services dated 14 May 1786 to 5 March 1788, and payments dated from 1787 through the final settlement date of 24 June 1789, shortly after Washington's election.
Among the entries which relate directly to Washington are "To an emetic for Mr. George Washington" (26 August 1786); "To bark for Mr. George Washington" (15 March 1787); and "To blooding yourself" (29 March 1787). Also mentioned are Lawrence Washington, Nelly Custis, Mr. Custis, and Mrs. Washington.
Typical among the dozens of slave entries are "To blooding Negro Amy," "To laying open an abcess on your Negro's finger," and "To 18 doses deobstruent pills for Negro Peg." At least 5 entries appear to relate to Washington's valet William Lee, including "To a vomit for Will" and "To a large box pectoral pills for Will."
Craik's total charges to Washington for this period exceeded £57. He seems to have initially taken partial payment in the form of several barrels of herring and shad, but the account was settled in cash in March and June of 1789.
This account offers a rare window into the daily life at Mount Vernon as Washington ascended to the presidency. The increased interest in the life of Washington's slaves only increases its substantial research value.