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Williaim August Bowles Proclamation, 1799-10-31

 Item
Identifier: MC-1954-24

Scope and Contents

A handwritten document by William A. Bowles, this is a proclamation dated October 31, 1799, expelling all Spaniards and Americans from the independent "State of Muskogee" issued from Wakina, Florida.

Dates

  • Creation: 1799-10-31

Creator

Conditions Governing Access

Access is by appoinbtment only.

Biographical / Historical

William Augustus Bowles, also known as Estajoca, was a Maryland-born English adventurer and organizer of Native American attempts to create their own state outside of the control of the United States, Spain, or Great Britain. He was the leader of three "filibustering (freebooting) expeditions" against the Spaniards in Florida. In 1795, along with the Seminoles, he formed a short-lived state in northern Florida (part of Spanish East Florida) known as the State of Muskogee, with himself as its "Director General." After designing a flag and constitution for his state, Bowles raised an army and began to carry out raids of Spanish territories in Florida.

Extent

1 item

Language of Materials

English

Physical Description

In fair condition.

Language of description
English
Script of description
Latin

Repository Details

Part of the Helmerich Center for American Research at Gilcrease Museum Repository

Contact:
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