CGH - 1812 LORD CHARLES SOMERSET SIGNED w. COA LETTER FRONT BRIGHTON TO LONDON CDS

The top cancel reads: "BRIGHTON AU 30 1812", and the feint lower cancel reads: "FREE 31 AU 31 1812". 1836. As a peer, Lord Somerset had the right to "frank" his mail, allowing it to be sent for free by signing his name on the cover. Lord Charles Somerset was a controversial Governor of the Cape. He served as the British Governor of the Cape Colony from 6 April 1814 to 1826. Known for his autocratic style and promotion of British settlement, he left the Cape in March 1826 to face accusations of misconduct in England, though his tenure is formally cited until 1826.

Historical Context: In August 1812, Brighton was the center of social life for the Prince Regent (the future George IV). Lord Charles Somerset was a close associate of the Prince, and mail from Brighton during this "Regency peak" is highly evocative for collectors of the era. In 1812, Somerset was the General in Command of the Brighton district.

THE LETTER WAS ADDRESSED TO: MR. MANTON, MY GUNMAN, DAVIES STREET, BERKELEY SQUARE, LONDON. -

A COLLECTIBLE PIECE OF POSTAL AND SOCIAL HISTORY