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Grand Central Station DS

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:1,000.00 USD
Grand Central Station DS
"WINNERS WILL BE NOTIFIED AFTER THE AUCTION ENDS BY THE AUCTIONEER ONCE ALL BIDS HAVE BEEN PROCESSED TO DETERMINE THE WINNER FOR EACH LOT."
Historic document signed by William H. Vanderbilt regarding the property in Manhattan on Park Avenue between 46th and 47th Streets, destined to become Grand Central Station. Dated 10 November 1869, document extends for one year the mortgage on the land, which Cornelius Vanderbilt, William's father, had purchased earlier that year for the purpose of building Grand Central Station to house his railroads coming in and out of New York. Three-page document is signed “The New York & Harlem RR Co / Wm H. Vanderbilt / VP” and “Attest Robert J. Niven / Sec.'' Signed to the right of embossed green seal of the railroad with original “Harlaem” spelling. Attached with string at top left is an autograph note signed “CV” by Cornelius Vanderbilt measuring 5” x 2.75” that reads in full, “Mr Nevin Please / Extend Mr Golets [sic] mortgage for a year / from 10 November 1874.” The contract agreed to stipulated that if the $400,000 purchase price was not paid in five years, by 10 November 1874, the “penal sum,” i.e. the penalty to be paid, would be $800,000. Interestingly on 10 November 1869, the day William Vanderbilt signed this deed, he was present with his father and “a vast multitude of people” according to “The New York Times,” as a 12-foot bronze statue of Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt was unveiled. The statue now stands on the south side of Grand Central Station overlooking Park Avenue South. Cornelius Vanderbilt ANS is in very good condition with light soiling and strengthening at folds. 10.25'' x 16.25'' property contract is in very good condition.