An Historically Important Certificate Issued To CAPT. JOHN PAUL JONES in 1790.

The original certificate issued to Capt. Jones after he was elected a member of the New York Marine Society on Dec. 15, 1790. The Society was created as a benevolent society whose membership was restricted to Captains and other Officers of merchant ships flying the American flag. On an historical note, Capt. John Paul Jones, while commanding the 'Bon Homme Richard, engaged the British ship HMS Serapis, commanded by Capt. Pearson, on Sept. 23, 1779. In a bloody battle, the Richard lost much of her firepower and most of her gunners in the opening broadside by the Serapis. Pearson called out to Jones asking for his surrender. Jones yelled back "I have not yet begun to fight.: Jones and his crew fought tenaciously, even though their ship was sinking beneath them. Finally, Capt. Pearson tore down his colors and the Serapis surrendered.