A piece of early American history has been stolen out of a private collector’s home in McLean. The stolen 1790 document was signed by both George Washington and Thomas Jefferson. The owners purchased the document four years ago through Sotheby’s.
According to public information officer Bud Walker of the Fairfax County police, when the owners of the document returned home from vacation earlier this month, they discovered the document missing. It was the only thing taken from the home in the robbery.
“The detective assigned to the case is pursuing normal lines of investigation,” said Walker. Because of the nature of the document, the authorities are focusing on nontraditional outlets to find the piece. “We don’t expect it to turn up at a pawn shop. We’re looking at the appropriate outlets, like antiquities dealers,” said Walker.
The victim, who bought the document for her husband’s 40th birthday present, says she holds out little hope it will be recovered. “It would be a difficult item to sell through a reputable dealer. They would want to know where it came from. Unfortunately, I’m beginning to think that whoever took it wanted it for themselves and not to sell,” said the victim.
The document is an appointment for a federal judgeship signed when the United States was in its infancy. “It is significant for two reasons. First, it was signed by George Washington as president and Thomas Jefferson as the secretary of state. Secondly, its historical significance is that it was the first year of operation for the federal government,” said Walker. “Even though it’s a minor appointment, it’s part of the establishment of our government.”
The victims assigned sentimental value to the document as well. “It was an appointment of a New Jersey judge, and my husband is from New Jersey, as well as being a history buff,” said the victim.
There is no photograph of the document available because taking photos of aged documents can damage them.
“Of all the things that could have been taken from our house, it’s really unfortunate that this had to be the one because of its significance,” said the victim.