1776 Bermuda Sailing License Signed by Governor George James Bruere — Brigantine Fanny Bound for Antigua

An original manuscript maritime license dated June 14, 1776, bearing the bold signature of George James Bruere, Royal Governor, Commander in Chief, and Vice Admiral of Bermuda.

Issued during the American Revolutionary War, the document authorizes the master of the brigantine Fanny, whose name appears as John Lightbourne, to depart Bermuda for Antigua after giving the required security and clearing through the Secretary’s Office.

Written in an elegant clerical hand, the license opens with Bruere’s formal titles and the salutation “To all to whom these Presents shall come.” It concludes with the governor’s signature, “George Jas Bruere,” and an additional official countersignature at lower left. An applied paper seal is present at upper left, and the reverse bears a contemporary docket identifying the permission to depart with the brig Fanny.

Dated just twenty days before the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, this document offers a tangible connection to British Atlantic shipping and colonial administration during the pivotal year of 1776.

Condition: Age toning, scattered staining, intersecting folds with splits, small holes, and marginal losses. Apparent reinforcement or repairs are visible on the reverse. The principal text and governor’s signature remain strong and readily legible. See photographs.

A distinctive document for collectors of Bermuda, maritime history, British colonial manuscripts, and the American Revolutionary era.