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Membership certificate to the American Colonization Society, February 22, 1832
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Membership certificate to the American Colonization Society, February 22, 1832
A membership certificate to the American Colonization Society for Sarah Emlen Cresson signed by James Madison as the president of the society on February 22, 1832. The certificate has pre-printed text with spaces for filling in the date and member name by hand. At the center top of the certificate is a bundle of dark clouds with a half-circle of sun rays bursting from it. At the center bottom is a seal that shows a ship following a bird across the ocean to Liberia with text in the outer rim reading " LUX IN TENEBRIS / AM: COL: SOC: A.D. 1816." The seal is surrounded by various types of foliage. The certificate is signed in the bottom left corner by " R.R. Gurley, Secretary" and in the bottom right corner by " James Madison Presed t" inside the lined border of the certificate, and in the bottom left corner outside the border " Attest / Elliott Cresson / 1 mo 8. 1834". The reverse is blank
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Media ID 22175798
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Black History Certificate Colonisation Cultural Heritage Document Emancipation Freedom Heritage James Madison Liberia West Africa Madison James Membership Migrating Migration Nmaahc Repatriation Society Afro American Graphic Design International Affairs
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> United States of America
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a historic membership certificate to the American Colonization Society, dating back to February 22,1832. The certificate belonged to Sarah Emlen Cresson and bears the prestigious signature of James Madison, who served as the president of the society at that time. The certificate itself is a work of art, with pre-printed text awaiting personalization by hand. At its center top, an intriguing image captures dark clouds surrounding a half-circle burst of radiant sun rays. This symbolic representation suggests hope emerging from adversity. Meanwhile, at the center bottom lies a seal depicting a ship following a bird across the ocean towards Liberia – an evocative portrayal of colonization efforts. Surrounded by various foliage types, this seal also features text in its outer rim reading "LUX IN TENEBRIS / AM: COL: SOC: A. D. 1816" emphasizing enlightenment amidst darkness and underscoring the mission of the American Colonization Society. The signatures on this remarkable document further authenticate its historical significance; R. R Gurley signs as Secretary in the bottom left corner while James Madison's distinctive signature graces it as President in the bottom right corner within lined borders. On closer inspection outside these borders is another inscription stating "Attest / Elliott Cresson / 1 mo 8.1834". The reverse side remains blank but leaves room for imagination regarding potential historical context or additional details about this fascinating piece. Overall, this print preserves not only an important artifact but also offers glimpses into America's past and its complex relationship with colonization during that era.
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