Stephen Girard: Comprehensive Collection of Documents Regarding His Bequeathing his Entire Fortune to Philadelphia and New Orleans. (1750-1831) Impressive collection of documents and written Will and Testament of Stephen Girard, at the time the wealthiest man in America. Born in France, he immigrated to the 13 Colonies established himself in the American banking system and enjoying astonishing financial success. During the War of 1812, Girard single-handedly saved the federal government of the United States from bankruptcy by personally financing the American war effort. He later began to acquire great amounts of land in Louisiana including a slave plantation. He had no children so he devoted much of his vast wealth to philanthropic endeavors.He bequeathed nearly his entire fortune to charitable and municipal institutions of Philadelphia and New Orleans. Interestingly his relatives in France sued to contest the will but was upheld by the Supreme Court in a landmark case. Original documents include his Last Will and Testament outlining the disbursement and trusts from his estate, a publication by the 29th Congress 1st. Session approving the land claims bequeathed, a letter dated Dec. 15th, 1857 regarding Girard College in Louisiana and more. Finally an extensive document involving the Bastrop Grant involving a million acre land grant ultimately deemed void by the Supreme Court and became part of the Louisiana Purchase. At that time Girard bought a massive portion of the disputed lands. Estimated Value $600 - 1,000
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