Thomas's Massachusetts Spy, Or Worcester Gazette. Vol. XXV No. 1224. Worcester, Massachusetts: Isaiah Thomas, 28 September 1796. 4 pages, folio, disbound, 11 5/8 x 18 in. 

An early printing of President George Washington's Final Address, written near the end of his second term before he returned to Mount Vernon. First published in Claypoole's American Daily Advertiser on 19 September 1796, about 10 weeks before the presidential electors cast their ballots in the 1796 election. In this address, Washington stressed the dangers of partisanship as well as foreign influence. 

A first draft was originally prepared by James Madison near the end of Washington's first term. Washington ran for a second term, however, in part because of the bitter rivalry between Alexander Hamilton and Thomas Jefferson. In 1796, Hamilton helped to write a new address which announced that he would not seek a third term. 

He stressed the dangers of political parties and the importance of national identity, stating that the "name of AMERICAN...must always exalt the just pride of patriotism." He also asserted that, while friendship and commerce with all nations was beneficial, it was important to avoid involvement in European wars. A reflection and defense of his legacy concludes the address.

It is widely considered one of the most important statements on republicanism. 

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