A War of 1812 Presentation telescope presented by the NEW ENGLAND GUARDS on July 24, 1813

One of the earliest and rarest American presentation telescopes that I have ever seen! This rare single-draw telescope was made by Spencer, Browning & Rust of London who exported many of their telescopes to the United States. The presentation inscription reads as follows: "Presented to Andrew Manning of the NEW ENGLAND GUARDS as a token of their gratitude for his gratuitous services rendered while they were endeavoring to recover the bodies of their brother soldiers, James Coffin and George Dana who were drowned in Boston Harbor July 24, 1813." HISTORICAL NOTE: The New England Guards was an organization formed in the War of 1812. They performed State military duty and saw much service during the War of 1812. Faneuil Hall was used as an armory for the Guards. The motto of the Company was "Our Nations Honour is the Bond of Union." Shortly before this telescope was presented the Guards escorted Commodore William Bainbridge from Long Wharf up State Street. Length closed: 27" Length extended: 37". Very sharp and clear optics.