Button Gwinnett was a signatory to the Declaration of Independence. His short-lived but meteroic political career has invited much conjecture but the lack of any obvious legacy has since condemned him to semi-oblivion - apart from his signature which is now the most sought after in the United States. This book fills a gap in our knowledge. It tells the story of Gwinnett's life in gripping detail: from 1762 and his arrival in America as a bankrupt Englishman; to Founding Father in 1776; and finally to his death in a duel the following year. It examines how he rose by dubious means to become one of the largest landowners in the State of Georgia and leader of the Popular Party; and it lays out the complex steps by means of which; in 1776; he placed his signature on the Declaration of Independence and became successively Speaker; Commander-in-Chief and President of Georgia - before an untimely death in an unnecessary duel.
#749469 in Books 2014-10-14Original language:EnglishPDF # 1 12.10 x 1.10 x 10.10l; .0 #File Name: 1907804331284 pages
Review
2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Beautiful Book on Beautiful Furniture -- An Heirloom VolumeBy RockLobsterThis book; and the exhibit with which it is associated; is a remarkable achievement. Over the course of a decade's work; the authors have composed a detailed picture of one of America's greatest furniture makers; and of his client base and broader economic context. And their detective work has yielded an object of beauty fit for anyone interested in history; the decorative arts; or how America came to be. This book opens a door for readers into another world; and makes it truly accessible to both connoisseurs and lay people. While the show will close at the end of March 2015; this book will last for many decades as a seminal contribution to the understanding of material culture during and in the years leading up to our Revolution. Not to be missed!2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Wonderful book.By Homeschool MomThis book is a wonderful addition to the library of a traditional furniture lover or craftsman. The pieces are beautiful and the photography superb. It is also a well-written account of a furniture designer/maker and his business.1 of 1 people found the following review helpful. Getting lost in 18th century SalemBy Jonathan RickardExhaustive study made exquisite by the highly capable photographs of extraordinary classics of American furniture.
