Dean Ellis (New York, 1920 - 2009) "Thomas Jefferson" Signed lower right. Original Oil painting on Masonite. Provenance: Collection of James A. Helzer (1946-2008), Founder of Unicover Corporation. This painting is the original painting which was published on the Fleetwood First Day Cover of the U.S. 29c Thomas Jefferson Great Americans stamp issued April 13, 1993. On April 13, 1743, Thomas Jefferson was born in Albemarle County, Virginia. His father, a surveyor and cartographer, is credited with instilling in his son the importance of a sound classical education. Jefferson was only 17 years old when he entered the College of William and Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia. Despite his youth, he became friends with three of the city's leading residents -- a professor, a jurist and the lieutenant governor of the colony. Their influence led Jefferson to study law and ultimately seek a career in politics. In 1775, he was appointed to the Second Continental Congress and drafted the Declaration of Independence the following year. Although he lacked the fiery eloquence of fellow Virginian Patrick Henry, he was peerless when putting words to paper. Serving as ambassador to France after the Revolution and as George Washington's secretary of state, Jefferson ardently supported states' rights and vehemently opposed the formation of a strong central government. This put him in direct conflict with men such as Alexander Hamilton and John Adams who were Federalists. As a member of the newly formed Democratic-Republican Party, Jefferson lost to John Adams in the 1796 presidential election. However, he defeated Adams in 1800 and went on to serve two terms. During his administration he slashed the national debt and acquired the vast Louisiana Territory from France. Image Size: 18 x 21 in. Overall Size: 24 x 27 in. Unframed. (B10732)