GAZETTE OF THE UNITED STATES, Philadelphia, May 21, 1794  Shortly before this date the federal government passed the historic Naval Act of 1794, authorizing the building of six frigates, the founding ships of what would become the U.S. Navy.
The back page has a detailed advertisement from the "Treasury Department which essentially is seeking bits for the building of these frigates. It notes in part: "Notice is hereby given that proposals will be received...for Ship Timber of the following kinds, suitable for the building of the Frigates authorized by law..." and what followed are the details of the wood required.
Originally the government authorized the creation of 6 frigates, later reduced to 3 being the Constitution, the Constellation, and the United States.
Four pages, never-trimmed margins, great condition.