Providence Marine Society, Providence, Rhode Island, 4 July 1828

[RHODE ISLAND]. PROVIDENCE MARINE SOCIETY. An engraved certificate of membership for Capt. Augustus Carpenter (1788-1857), Providence, 4 July 1828. Signed by Richmond Bullock, president, and counter-signed by F. Gladding, secretary. 1 page, folio (9½ x 15¼in.) engraved by William Hamilton (Providence), printed in three typefaces, gold embossed seal of Society at left, with hand-colored vignettes of Neptune and other nautical scenes, the American eagle and great seal of the United States, and a remarkable prospect of Providence harbor (¾in. closed tear at bottom center, slight spotting, chipped along edges). Framed (not examined out of frame). "The Providence Marine Society was founded in 1798 as a mutual aid society for sea captains. Its by-laws state that it was 'established by commanders of vessels for their relief in distress, and for the relief of their widows and children.' Members were also strongly encouraged to attend funerals of their brethren" (Rhode Island Historical Society website). The Society disbanded in 1951.