{"title":"Military","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"flowers-in-a-brown-vase-bruegel-on-canvas-commissioned-by-rijkmuseum","title":"Flowers in a Brown Vase, Bruegel, on canvas commissioned by Rijkmuseum","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"77\" data-end=\"910\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"77\" data-end=\"87\"\u003eTitle:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cem data-start=\"88\" data-end=\"113\"\u003eFlowers in a Brown Vase\u003c\/em\u003e (after Jan Brueghel the Elder)\u003cbr data-start=\"144\" data-end=\"147\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"147\" data-end=\"158\"\u003eMedium:\u003c\/strong\u003e Color offset lithograph on canvas\u003cbr data-start=\"191\" data-end=\"194\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"194\" data-end=\"209\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eDimensions: 21 1\/2 x 29\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"256\" data-end=\"259\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"259\" data-end=\"271\"\u003ePrinter:\u003c\/strong\u003e Amilcare Pizzi S.p.A., Milan\u003cbr data-start=\"300\" data-end=\"303\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"303\" data-end=\"317\"\u003ePublisher:\u003c\/strong\u003e Fratelli Fabbri Editori, Milan\u003cbr data-start=\"348\" data-end=\"351\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"351\" data-end=\"366\"\u003eIssued for:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rijksmuseum, Amsterdam\u003cbr data-start=\"389\" data-end=\"392\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"392\" data-end=\"401\"\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e c. 1955–1970\u003cbr data-start=\"414\" data-end=\"417\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"417\" data-end=\"433\"\u003eDescription:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"433\" data-end=\"436\"\u003e\nA high-quality mid-20th-century reproduction of Jan Brueghel the Elder’s floral still life, originally painted circa 1608. This richly colored offset lithograph was produced by Amilcare Pizzi S.p.A., a renowned Milanese art printer, and published by Fratelli Fabbri Editori for the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. Typical of European museum editions from this period, the print features fine detail and vibrant chromatic fidelity, intended for educational and decorative purposes. This is a work on canvas, good to very good condition. Some glue remnants at top as shown. We can only estimate the date as being 1960.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp data-start=\"77\" data-end=\"910\"\u003e\n\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp data-start=\"912\" data-end=\"1039\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"912\" data-end=\"927\"\u003eProvenance:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"927\" data-end=\"930\"\u003e\nAcquired from a private collection; originally issued as part of a museum-sanctioned art reproduction series.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Princeton Audubon Prints","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51381085896986,"sku":"EB-326686412943","price":495.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/57_057ad1dd-a626-4c88-8ed3-afda5eaf8c5c.jpg?v=1764382448"},{"product_id":"elegant-1875-pennsylvania-commission-signed-by-governor","title":"Elegant 1875 Pennsylvania Commission Signed By Governor","description":"\u003cp\u003e16 x 17 inches\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eParchment\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis document is a Justice of the Peace commission for Daniel Wentz of Carbon County, Pennsylvania, dated March 13, 1875. The commission was issued and signed by John F. Hartranft, who served as the Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania at the time. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDocument Details\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDocument Type: Commission appointing a Justice of the Peace.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAppointee: Daniel Wentz.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLocation: Borough of Pottsville, in the County of Carbon, Pennsylvania.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGovernor (Signee): John F. Hartranft, Governor of Pennsylvania from 1873 to 1879.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSecretary of the Commonwealth (Countersignee): M.S. Quay (Matthew Stanley Quay), who later became the Chairman of the Pennsylvania Republican Party.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDate of Issue: Thirteenth day of March, 1875.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTerm of Office: Five years from the date of issue.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSeal: Features a large, circular blue wax seal with the state coat of arms. The document also includes an embossed seal in the lower-left corner.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Princeton Audubon Prints","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51407029403930,"sku":"EB-326892370295","price":300.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/57_48e5955d-94fb-4a6e-b351-953d90406a2d.jpg?v=1764639169"},{"product_id":"1898-military-appointment-signed-by-queen-victoria","title":"1898 Military Appointment Signed By Queen Victoria","description":"\u003cp\u003e1898 document signed by Queen Victoria. Measures 16 x 12 inches. Seal intact. Countersigned. Fair to good condition. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAppointment of Bernard April Barton to the Hunter Division of the Royal Engineers. (Submarine Miners)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Princeton Audubon Prints","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51548915663130,"sku":"EB-326945934860","price":925.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/57_3b66c651-7d88-4bd9-9e09-0009750b9aa8.jpg?v=1767872321"},{"product_id":"1827-massachusetts-military-document","title":"1827 Massachusetts Military Document","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis is an antique Massachusetts Militia document from 1827. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDocument Type: Official military discharge paper for a militia officer. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDate and Location: Head Quarters, Boston, April 4, 1827 measuring 13 x 8 inches. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSubject: The Honorable Discharge of Kila Scott, who resigned his commission as a Captain of a Rifle Company in the 3rd Regiment of Infantry. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSignatures: Signed by the Adjutant General by command of the Governor. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCondition: Fold creases and some staining consistent with its age. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Princeton Audubon Prints","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51576677957914,"sku":"EB-326947003104","price":100.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/57_5eacac31-445f-451b-908e-47af03410a8e.jpg?v=1768405999"},{"product_id":"king-george-signed-military-document","title":"King George Signed Military Document","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis is a British Army commission scroll appointing Cecil James Reynolds as a temporary Second Lieutenant in the Land Forces, dated January 9, 1915, during the reign of King George V. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe document bears the signature of King George V on the upper left. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIt formally grants authority and reposes \"especial Trust and Confidence\" in the officer's \"Loyalty Courage and good Conduct\". \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe appointment was made in the fifth year of King George V's reign. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Princeton Audubon Prints","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51576678154522,"sku":"EB-326947021270","price":500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/57_85b69252-2c24-4e48-a980-6f6bbbfe38ce.jpg?v=1768406004"},{"product_id":"1826-east-india-military-commission","title":"1826 East India Military Commission","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis document is a military commission from the British East India Company, dated May 23, 1825, appointing Philip Francis Mary as a Lieutenant of Cavalry on the Bengal Establishment. \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDocument Details\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAppointee: Philip Francis Mary, Gentleman.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRank: Lieutenant of Cavalry.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEstablishment: Service of the Honorable United East India Company on the Bengal Establishment.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDate of Rank: Tenth day of July, One Thousand Eight Hundred and Twenty-five (1825).\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDate Issued: Twenty-third day of May, in the Sixth Year of the Reign of King George the Fourth, by the Grace of God.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLocation Issued: Fort William, in Bengal.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSignatories (partially legible):\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAmherst (William Amherst, 1st Earl Amherst, Governor-General of Bengal).\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLord Combermere (Stapleton Cotton, 1st Viscount Combermere, Commander-in-Chief in India).\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eH. T. Prinsep (Henry Thoby Prinsep, Secretary to Government, Military Department). \u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe document is a standard form with handwritten insertions for specific details and bears official seals. It outlines the responsibilities of the newly commissioned officer, including exercising soldiers under his command, keeping them in good order, and following all orders from superior officers or the Governor General in Council.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe East India Company was a powerful English trading company that eventually came to rule large parts of India, exercising military and administrative functions until the British Crown assumed direct control after the Indian Rebellion of 1857. \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Princeton Audubon Prints","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":51739552219418,"sku":"EB-326992099282","price":650.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/57_3b7b0c42-9e4a-4edd-a8d1-3f4637c96fba.jpg?v=1771870019"},{"product_id":"revolutionary-era-military-letter-mentioning-howe","title":"Revolutionary Era Military Letter Mentioning Howe","description":"Revolutionary Era Military Letter Mentioning Howe. Shipped with USPS Priority Mail.","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52263584891162,"sku":"EB-327069896891","price":750.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/57_6aa3d2e4-3024-4b69-a361-2bea25f904fd.jpg?v=1779367058"},{"product_id":"napoleon-signed-document-before-becoming-emperor","title":"Napoleon Bonaparte Signed Military Order to Berthier — First Consul, Army of the Rhine, January 14, 1800","description":"\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; line-height: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;\"\u003eAn important military letter signed \u003cb\u003e“Bonaparte”\u003c\/b\u003e by Napoleon Bonaparte during the opening weeks of his rule as First Consul of France.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; line-height: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;\"\u003eWritten at Paris on \u003cb\u003e24 Nivôse, Year VIII of the French Republic—January 14, 1800\u003c\/b\u003e, the document is addressed to General Louis-Alexandre Berthier, Napoleon’s Minister of War and indispensable chief of staff. Napoleon directs Berthier to transmit troop-movement orders by telegraph and commands that the \u003cb\u003e13th Cavalry Regiment proceed to the Army of the Rhine\u003c\/b\u003e. He further orders the regiment inspected before departure so that an exact report of its condition can be furnished.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; line-height: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;\"\u003eIssued only two months after Napoleon seized power in the Coup of 18 Brumaire, the letter belongs to the formative opening of the Consulate. Napoleon was then reorganizing France’s military forces in preparation for the campaigns of 1800. The Army of the Rhine would soon conduct the campaign culminating in the decisive French victory at Hohenlinden.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; line-height: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;\"\u003eThe document is written in a secretarial hand on laid paper bearing an impressive engraved allegorical vignette of the French Republic. Napoleon personally signs the letter with a large, exceptionally bold example of his early \u003cb\u003e“Bonaparte”\u003c\/b\u003e signature—the form he used before assuming the imperial title in 1804.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; line-height: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;\"\u003eAt lower right is the crowned ownership stamp of the \u003cb\u003eBibliotheca Lindesiana\u003c\/b\u003e, the renowned library assembled by the Earls of Crawford and Balcarres at Haigh Hall. This distinguished 19th-century collection provenance adds materially to the document’s historical and collecting interest.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; line-height: normal;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;\"\u003eA particularly desirable Napoleon document combining an early First Consul date, direct military orders, telegraphic communication, the Army of the Rhine, a handsome Republican vignette, an unusually strong signature, and distinguished British provenance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"MsoNormal\" style=\"mso-margin-top-alt: auto; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; line-height: normal;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-family: 'Times New Roman',serif; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-font-kerning: 0pt; mso-ligatures: none;\"\u003e Original folds, scattered light toning and foxing, minor marginal staining, and small edge losses, principally at the upper-right corner. Ink remains dark and legible; Napoleon’s signature is exceptionally bold. Bibliotheca Lindesiana stamp clear at lower right.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52263591280922,"sku":"EB-327156494498","price":7575.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/57_711c6c77-3e3e-4710-86fa-fc9a45863b0e.jpg?v=1779367238"},{"product_id":"1822-tennessee-military-land-grant-governor-william-carroll-state-seal","title":"1822 Tennessee Military Land Grant – Governor William Carroll – State Seal","description":"\u003cp\u003e1822 Tennessee Military Land Grant – Governor William Carroll – State Seal – 400 Acres – Murfreesborough\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDescription\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal State of Tennessee land grant issued during the administration of Governor William Carroll, one of Tennessee's most important early governors and a celebrated War of 1812 commander.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis grant, numbered 18851, conveys approximately 400 acres to Thomas Graham, assignee of a military warrant originally issued for military service. The document was executed at Murfreesborough, then the capital of Tennessee, and bears the embossed Great Seal of the State of Tennessee.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe grant is signed by:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGovernor William Carroll\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSecretary of State Daniel Graham\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eand contains a detailed manuscript survey describing the property boundaries.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHistorical Importance\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTennessee military land grants represent the opening of the American frontier and the settlement of lands awarded for military service. These official state documents provide direct evidence of the transfer of public lands that helped shape the early American West.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGovernor William Carroll served as Tennessee's governor for twelve years and remains one of the most influential figures in the state's early history.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeatures\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal Tennessee land grant\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGrant No. 18851\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDated 1822\/1823\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEmbossed Tennessee state seal\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGovernor William Carroll signature\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDaniel Graham signature\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eApproximately 400 acres\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMilitary warrant land grant\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMurfreesborough issue\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLarge-format manuscript document\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCondition\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal condition with age-related wear. Numerous historical repairs and archival tape reinforcement on the reverse. Fold separations, edge wear, toning, and losses consistent with a document over 200 years old. Seal remains visible and manuscript text remains largely legible.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePlease examine all photographs carefully.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCollector Appeal\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn attractive early Tennessee state document featuring:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTennessee frontier history\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMilitary bounty land\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGovernor William Carroll\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eState seal\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEarly American land settlement\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGenealogical research potential\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn excellent addition to collections of Tennessee history, western expansion, military land grants, or early American manuscripts.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52312133304602,"sku":"EB-327187711980","price":595.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/57_53c3c3d6-e71c-42a7-872d-25cce9664fd7.jpg?v=1780518112"},{"product_id":"1846-sir-hugh-gough-india-military-commission","title":"1846 Sir Hugh Gough India Military Commission","description":"\u003cp\u003e1846 Sir Hugh Gough Signed India Military Commission 50th Regiment of Foot Sikh War Era\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal 1846 British Army Commission issued in India during the First Anglo-Sikh War\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eExceptional original military commission dated 10 May 1846, issued at Simla, Bengal, under the authority of the celebrated British commander Sir Hugh Gough, Commander-in-Chief of Her Majesty's Forces in the East Indies.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe commission appoints Charles Woodcock James, Esq., an officer of Her Majesty's 50th Regiment of Foot, to the rank of Captain in Her Majesty's Army in the East Indies.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIssued only months after the decisive campaigns of the First Anglo-Sikh War, this document represents a remarkable artifact from one of the most important periods of British military expansion in India.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHighlights\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal British Army commission\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSimla, Bengal\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDated May 10, 1846\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSir Hugh Gough, Commander-in-Chief\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e50th Regiment of Foot\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal manuscript entries\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal wax seal present\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eContemporary docketing on reverse\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLarge folio format\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eExcellent display quality\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHistorical Context\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSir Hugh Gough commanded British forces during the First Anglo-Sikh War and remains one of the most famous military leaders of the Victorian Empire. Documents issued under his authority are highly sought by collectors of British military, Indian, and colonial history.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCondition\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal condition with expected folds from official storage and transmission. Manuscript entries remain clear and legible. Original wax seal survives with attractive appearance. Minor age toning and handling wear consistent with age.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA scarce and highly displayable British India military commission from the height of the Victorian Empire.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52322995175706,"sku":"EB-327196222212","price":1975.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/57_27995613-817e-4879-bd64-f00816daeb5d.jpg?v=1780796498"},{"product_id":"1643-king-charles-i-signed-military-commission","title":"1643 King Charles I Signed Military Commission","description":"\u003cp\u003e1643 KING CHARLES I SIGNED MILITARY COMMISSION – ENGLISH CIVIL WAR – CHARLES R AUTOGRAPH – OXFORD\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eExtraordinary original military commission signed by King Charles I of England (1600–1649) during the English Civil War.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSigned boldly:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Charles R\"\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e(\"R\" for Rex, King)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDated:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOxford, 6 July 1643\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHISTORICAL DOCUMENT\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis commission appoints Samuel Warcup, Esq. as:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCaptain of a Company of Foot\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eserving under Colonel Thomas Leigh in the Royalist Army.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eIssued from Oxford, the wartime capital of King Charles I during the English Civil War, the document represents a rare surviving example of a military commission personally authorized and signed by the King during one of the most turbulent periods in British history.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe commission opens in the traditional royal style:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"Charles by the Grace of God King of Great Britain France and Ireland...\"\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eand authorizes the raising and command of troops in service of the Crown.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eKing Charles I was:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eKing of England, Scotland, and Ireland.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCentral figure in the English Civil War.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOpponent of Parliament in the conflict of 1642–1651.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eTried and executed in 1649.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOne of the most important figures in British constitutional history.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMilitary commissions signed by Charles I during the Civil War are significantly scarcer than later royal documents and are highly sought after by collectors of:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEnglish Civil War history\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRoyal autographs\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBritish monarchy\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMilitary commissions\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSeventeenth-century manuscripts\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDETAILS\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal Civil War military commission\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSigned \"Charles R\"\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOxford, 6 July 1643\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAppoints Samuel Warcup as Captain\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eReferences Colonel Thomas Leigh\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eRoyalist Army\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEnglish Civil War period\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLarge display-quality royal signature\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCONDITION\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal seventeenth-century document.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eExpected folds and handling wear.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAge toning and scattered staining.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eText somewhat faded.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSignature remains visible and attractive.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eComplete and historically intact\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThis is the type of document that attracts collectors of English Civil War manuscripts, royal autographs, and museum-quality historical material. A signed wartime commission of Charles I is far scarcer than most later British royal documents and represents an important artifact from one of the defining conflicts in British history.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52322996224282,"sku":"EB-327198066584","price":9985.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/57_832a7a67-c5af-495a-b53c-751be96faae9.jpg?v=1780796544"},{"product_id":"1727-british-colonial-military-order-garrison-directive","title":"1727 British Colonial Military Order Garrison Directive","description":"\u003cp\u003e1727 British Colonial Military Order Manuscript Garrison Directive Early America\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDescription\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal eighteenth-century manuscript military order dated April 29, 1727.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe document appears to direct an officer to assemble personnel within a garrison pursuant to an order issued in the name of His Majesty. The text contains language ordering compliance and concludes with wording similar to:\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\"... as you will answer the contrary at your peril.\"\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn excellent example of early British colonial military administration and manuscript record keeping.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eHighlights\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDated 1727\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal handwritten manuscript\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eBritish colonial military content\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGarrison-related order\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eEarly Georgian era\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eApproximately 300 years old\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePeriod endorsement on reverse\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAttractive display piece for collectors of colonial Americana\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCondition\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal manuscript fragment with expected folds, edge wear, losses, toning, and age-related creasing. Handwriting remains substantially legible. Please review all photographs carefully.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52336017408282,"sku":"EB-327204317039","price":425.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/57_934958ab-ba76-4306-8ce0-70d60ddc5bdd.jpg?v=1781051975"},{"product_id":"1826-maine-governor-albion-k-parris-signed-commission-state-seal","title":"1826 Maine Governor Albion K Parris Signed Commission State Seal","description":"\u003cp\u003e1826 MAINE GOVERNOR ALBION K. PARRIS SIGNED MILITIA COMMISSION – CAPTAIN LIGHT INFANTRY – EMBOSSED STATE SEAL\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAn attractive and historically significant original 1826 State of Maine militia commission signed by Governor Albion K. Parris, appointing Jeremiah Baker as Captain of a Company of Light Infantry in the Third Regiment, First Brigade, Fifth Division of the Maine Militia.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe commission bears the large embossed Seal of the State of Maine and is also countersigned by Secretary of State Joseph Williamson.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDated August 18, 1826, the commission grants Baker rank from July 1, 1826, during Maine's formative years as a newly admitted state.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe reverse retains the official printed oath certificate confirming Baker personally appeared and subscribed the constitutional oath on September 8, 1826, adding an additional layer of historical interest seldom preserved with these commissions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eFeatures\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal 1826 Maine militia commission\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSigned by Governor Albion K. Parris\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCountersigned by Secretary Joseph Williamson\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eLarge embossed State of Maine seal\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCaptain, Company of Light Infantry\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eReverse oath certification present\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAttractive early American military document\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eExcellent display piece\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCondition\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal folded condition with expected wear from age and storage. Fold separations, scattered foxing, staining, edge wear, and small losses are present. The document remains complete with strong signatures, readable text, and an attractive embossed seal. Please review all photographs carefully.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA desirable early Maine statehood document that would make an excellent addition to any collection of American military history, gubernatorial autographs, early state commissions, or Maine historical memorabilia.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52403063357722,"sku":"EB-327233554967","price":399.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/57_077203bc-2156-42f2-ac0e-d39ef0850690.jpg?v=1782638082"},{"product_id":"1813-napoleonic-wars-clarke-signed-military-order","title":"1813 Napoleonic Wars Clarke Signed Military Order","description":"\u003cp\u003eOriginal 1813 Napoleonic Wars Military Appointment Signed by Henri-Jacques-Guillaume Clarke, Duc de Feltre\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOffered is an original official French Ministry of War document signed by Henri-Jacques-Guillaume Clarke (1765–1818), Napoleon's Minister of War and later Marshal of France.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDated Paris, May 1813, this wartime order is addressed to Brigade General Pouget and conveys Emperor Napoleon's personal intention that the General immediately assume command of the Department of Aude, with instructions to proceed without delay to Carcassonne. The letter further states that his official commission papers will be delivered by the commanding general.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eUnlike routine administrative correspondence, this document records a specific military command appointment made during the pivotal 1813 campaign following Napoleon's rebuilding of the Grande Armée after the Russian disaster.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eDetails\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOriginal manuscript letter\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eParis, May 1813\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eOfficial French Ministry of War stationery\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eSigned by Henri-Jacques-Guillaume Clarke, Duc de Feltre\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eAddressed to Brigade General Pouget\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eReferences Emperor Napoleon's orders\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMilitary command appointment for the Department of Aude (Carcassonne)\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eApproximately 8 × 12 inches\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eVery good condition with normal folds from official handling\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA desirable Napoleonic military document combining an original ministerial signature, direct reference to Napoleon's orders, and historically significant wartime content.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52413601579290,"sku":"EB-327236667624","price":895.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/57_8544cff3-91a6-43c1-8c44-5d3a68c7371c.jpg?v=1782839055"},{"product_id":"1776-revolutionary-government-of-new-jersey-original-legislative-manuscripts-on-quartering-troops-military-logistics-and-admiralty-jurisdiction","title":"1776 Revolutionary Government of New Jersey: Original Legislative Manuscripts on Quartering Troops, Military Logistics, and Admiralty Jurisdiction","description":"\u003cdiv data-voice-floating-orb-focus-background=\"\" class=\"relative basis-auto flex-col -mb-(--composer-overlap-px) pb-(--composer-overlap-px) [--composer-overlap-px:28px] grow flex\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex flex-col text-sm\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"qMYqUG_convSearchResultHighlightRoot\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:3b8866a6-7b0e-488a-bf47-bbe3ab937bfa-15\" data-is-intersecting=\"true\"\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none [\u0026amp;:has([data-writing-block])\u0026gt;*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"request-WEB:3b8866a6-7b0e-488a-bf47-bbe3ab937bfa-15\" data-turn-id-container=\"request-WEB:3b8866a6-7b0e-488a-bf47-bbe3ab937bfa-15\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-28\" data-turn=\"assistant\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-15 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-conversation-screenshot-content=\"\" class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"ccbb3555-51eb-40dc-83c0-c806d808b677\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-5\" class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+\u0026amp;]:mt-1\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\" tabindex=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert wrap-break-word w-full light markdown-new-styling\"\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"307\" data-end=\"310\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"z9bpvv\" data-start=\"312\" data-end=\"372\" class=\"\"\u003eOriginal Revolutionary-Era Legislative Manuscript Archive\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"374\" data-end=\"773\"\u003eAn exceptional archive of \u003cstrong data-start=\"400\" data-end=\"459\"\u003efour original handwritten legislative manuscript bills\u003c\/strong\u003e prepared for the \u003cstrong data-start=\"477\" data-end=\"523\"\u003eCouncil and General Assembly of New Jersey\u003c\/strong\u003e during the opening years of the American Revolution. These working drafts document the creation of New Jersey's new state government following independence and illustrate how lawmakers established civil authority after separating from Great Britain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"775\" data-end=\"1106\"\u003eUnlike printed session laws, these manuscripts were working legislative copies, complete with extensive editorial revisions, insertions, deletions, and amendments made during the drafting process. They offer a rare glimpse into the actual legislative process as New Jersey transformed from a royal colony into an independent state.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-section-id=\"1ih7xqq\" data-start=\"1108\" data-end=\"1125\"\u003eIncluded are:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1akwgwj\" data-start=\"4384\" data-end=\"4630\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\n\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"4388\" data-end=\"4630\"\u003e1. An Act to explain the New Constitution of the State of New Jersey, as to the quartering of, and furnishing Carriages for, the Army in the Service of the United States of North America, and for making some further Provision for the same\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4632\" data-end=\"4748\"\u003eThis substantial multi-page committee draft addresses one of the central constitutional questions of the Revolution.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4750\" data-end=\"4769\"\u003eThe bill regulates:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"4771\" data-end=\"5035\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"11oy9ru\" data-start=\"4771\" data-end=\"4802\"\u003equartering Continental troops\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"197ca4r\" data-start=\"4803\" data-end=\"4823\"\u003ebilleting soldiers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"xu3w09\" data-start=\"4824\" data-end=\"4849\"\u003emilitary transportation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"11watgw\" data-start=\"4850\" data-end=\"4869\"\u003ewagons and horses\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"176p957\" data-start=\"4870\" data-end=\"4898\"\u003ecompensation for civilians\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"f18hg9\" data-start=\"4899\" data-end=\"4932\"\u003erequisition of public buildings\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"rq2vc8\" data-start=\"4933\" data-end=\"4965\"\u003eprotection of private property\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"7y7mot\" data-start=\"4966\" data-end=\"4998\"\u003eauthority of civil magistrates\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"d92phl\" data-start=\"4999\" data-end=\"5035\"\u003elimitations upon military officers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5037\" data-end=\"5114\"\u003eThe legislation begins with an extensive constitutional analysis referencing:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"5116\" data-end=\"5235\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1o7faem\" data-start=\"5116\" data-end=\"5145\"\u003ethe New Jersey Constitution\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"ju3u78\" data-start=\"5146\" data-end=\"5173\"\u003ethe Common Law of England\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1idh1ki\" data-start=\"5174\" data-end=\"5202\"\u003ethe English Bill of Rights\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1nst0ja\" data-start=\"5203\" data-end=\"5235\"\u003eearlier parliamentary statutes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5237\" data-end=\"5426\"\u003eIt represents an extraordinary example of Revolutionary constitutional drafting as legislators reconciled inherited English legal principles with the needs of an independent American state.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"1815\" data-end=\"2158\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1815\" data-end=\"1893\"\u003e2. \"An Act to Obviate Doubts with Respect to the Authority of Counsellors\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1815\" data-end=\"2158\"\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eAn important original Revolutionary War legislative manuscript addressing one of the most fundamental legal problems confronting the newly independent State of Delaware: the continued authority of public officials following separation from Great Britain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4154\" data-end=\"4688\"\u003ePrepared during the first months of New Jersey's independence, this original committee draft confirms that existing judicial and civil officers would continue to exercise the powers previously entrusted to them under the colonial government. The legislation declares that such officers shall remain vested with full authority as conservators of the peace, retain the power to acknowledge deeds and other legal instruments, and continue to enjoy the rights, privileges, and immunities necessary for the orderly administration of justice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4690\" data-end=\"5009\"\u003eRather than creating new offices, the act ensured continuity of government by preserving the legal authority of experienced officials during the transition from colony to state. Without such legislation, the validity of judicial proceedings, land transactions, and other civil acts could have been called into question.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5011\" data-end=\"5196\"\u003eWritten in iron-gall ink on laid paper, the manuscript preserves contemporary editorial revisions characteristic of a working committee draft prepared before the official engrossed act.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-section-id=\"1dr5t50\" data-start=\"5198\" data-end=\"5209\"\u003eDetails\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"5211\" data-end=\"5424\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"18urynv\" data-start=\"5211\" data-end=\"5262\"\u003eOriginal Revolutionary War legislative manuscript\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1i6lba8\" data-start=\"5291\" data-end=\"5308\"\u003eCirca 1776–1777\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"cyyw5k\" data-start=\"5309\" data-end=\"5326\"\u003eCommittee draft\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1djkpeq\" data-start=\"5327\" data-end=\"5356\"\u003eIron-gall ink on laid paper\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"17qldge\" data-start=\"5357\" data-end=\"5401\"\u003eContemporary revisions and interlineations\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"sryx57\" data-start=\"5402\" data-end=\"5424\"\u003eVery Good+ condition\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-section-id=\"lspeud\" data-start=\"5426\" data-end=\"5453\"\u003eHistorical Significance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5455\" data-end=\"5863\"\u003eThis manuscript illustrates a crucial but often overlooked aspect of the American Revolution: the preservation of legal continuity. While the Declaration of Independence severed political ties with Great Britain, state governments still had to ensure that courts remained open, deeds remained valid, and magistrates retained lawful authority. This act records Delaware's legislative solution to that problem.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1oyrhgy\" data-start=\"5433\" data-end=\"5545\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"5437\" data-end=\"5545\"\u003e3.  An Act for Establishing a Court of Admiralty and Custom House Officers within the State of New Jersey\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"475\" data-end=\"1011\"\u003eAlthough this was found among Delaware legislative papers, the act itself concerns \u003cstrong data-start=\"558\" data-end=\"572\"\u003eNew Jersey\u003c\/strong\u003e. During the Revolution, neighboring states frequently borrowed, reviewed, or adapted one another's legislation, particularly in areas such as admiralty jurisdiction, prize cases, customs enforcement, and maritime commerce. Delaware's legislators were actively reorganizing their own legal system in 1776–1777, making it plausible that this manuscript served as a reference copy or committee draft related to maritime judicial legislation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"ery58m\" data-start=\"1013\" data-end=\"1034\"\u003eHistorical Context\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1036\" data-end=\"1211\"\u003eFollowing Independence, the colonial Vice-Admiralty Courts established under the British Crown ceased to function. Each state had to create its own admiralty courts to handle:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"1213\" data-end=\"1392\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"qzawf4\" data-start=\"1213\" data-end=\"1242\"\u003ecaptures of British vessels\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"96xkvy\" data-start=\"1243\" data-end=\"1261\"\u003eprize litigation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1uzawf3\" data-start=\"1262\" data-end=\"1293\"\u003econfiscated Loyalist property\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"bojip8\" data-start=\"1294\" data-end=\"1315\"\u003ecustoms enforcement\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1xk281b\" data-start=\"1316\" data-end=\"1346\"\u003emaritime commercial disputes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1d0cgfw\" data-start=\"1347\" data-end=\"1392\"\u003eviolations of embargoes and navigation laws\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1394\" data-end=\"1505\"\u003eWithout such courts, privateering—the capture of enemy ships under state commissions—could not legally operate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1507\" data-end=\"1540\"\u003eThe opening language establishes:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote data-start=\"1542\" data-end=\"1572\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1544\" data-end=\"1572\"\u003e\"...a Court of Admiralty...\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1574\" data-end=\"1630\"\u003eto exercise jurisdiction within the State of New Jersey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1632\" data-end=\"1703\"\u003eThis placed maritime justice under state rather than British authority.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"vy87ap\" data-start=\"1705\" data-end=\"1718\"\u003eImportance\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1720\" data-end=\"1850\"\u003eAdmiralty legislation ranks among the most desirable categories of Revolutionary legal manuscripts because it directly relates to:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"1852\" data-end=\"1963\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1rn9nvj\" data-start=\"1852\" data-end=\"1876\"\u003ethe American naval war\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"19btaj6\" data-start=\"1877\" data-end=\"1891\"\u003eprivateering\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"wkur0s\" data-start=\"1892\" data-end=\"1905\"\u003eprize money\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1xrlvvw\" data-start=\"1906\" data-end=\"1936\"\u003econfiscated British shipping\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"190p07\" data-start=\"1937\" data-end=\"1963\"\u003efinancing the Revolution\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1965\" data-end=\"2055\"\u003eMany fortunes during the Revolution were made through prize cases decided in these courts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"sgkise\" data-start=\"2057\" data-end=\"2084\"\u003ePhysical Characteristics\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2086\" data-end=\"2167\"\u003eThe manuscript shares several characteristics with your other legislative drafts:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"2169\" data-end=\"2328\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1o376c\" data-start=\"2169\" data-end=\"2200\"\u003eeighteenth-century laid paper\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"w096ig\" data-start=\"2201\" data-end=\"2216\"\u003eiron gall ink\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"iirlg5\" data-start=\"2217\" data-end=\"2252\"\u003elegislative docket on the reverse\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1mtbh9o\" data-start=\"2253\" data-end=\"2282\"\u003ecommittee-style handwriting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1gev5od\" data-start=\"2283\" data-end=\"2328\"\u003eworking draft rather than an engrossed copy\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2330\" data-end=\"2394\"\u003eIt appears to be from the same general period (circa 1776–1777).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"hrykuu\" data-start=\"2396\" data-end=\"2408\"\u003eCondition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2410\" data-end=\"2420\"\u003eVery Good+\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"2422\" data-end=\"2600\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1qiadup\" data-start=\"2422\" data-end=\"2432\"\u003ecomplete\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"j449hd\" data-start=\"2433\" data-end=\"2456\"\u003eattractive laid paper\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"8gukoz\" data-start=\"2457\" data-end=\"2476\"\u003estrong manuscript\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"k1n3xf\" data-start=\"2477\" data-end=\"2497\"\u003eoriginal docketing\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"pdwm74\" data-start=\"2498\" data-end=\"2522\"\u003ecustomary filing folds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"4dnntb\" data-start=\"2523\" data-end=\"2600\"\u003eminor edge loss at lower right, not affecting the title or most of the text\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1dkw6ui\" data-start=\"391\" data-end=\"455\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\n\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"394\" data-end=\"455\"\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1dkw6ui\" data-start=\"391\" data-end=\"455\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\n\u003cspan role=\"text\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"394\" data-end=\"455\"\u003e4. \"An Act for the Security of the Government of New Jersey\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"457\" data-end=\"494\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"457\" data-end=\"474\"\u003eJurisdiction:\u003c\/strong\u003e State of New Jersey\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"496\" data-end=\"617\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"496\" data-end=\"505\"\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"506\" data-end=\"514\"\u003e1776\u003c\/strong\u003e (the text refers to legislation passed September 19, 1776, and repeals earlier colonial oath statutes)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"619\" data-end=\"674\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"619\" data-end=\"637\"\u003eDocument Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eOriginal legislative committee draft\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"676\" data-end=\"679\"\u003e\n\u003ch1 data-section-id=\"2ah60e\" data-start=\"681\" data-end=\"704\"\u003eHistorical Importance\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"706\" data-end=\"818\"\u003eThis is one of the earliest loyalty laws enacted by an American state following the Declaration of Independence.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"820\" data-end=\"1032\"\u003eIts purpose was to secure the new Revolutionary government by requiring public officers and others holding positions of trust to renounce allegiance to Great Britain and swear fidelity to the State of New Jersey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1034\" data-end=\"1055\"\u003eThe opening declares:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote data-start=\"1057\" data-end=\"1161\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1059\" data-end=\"1161\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1059\" data-end=\"1161\"\u003e\"...it is essentially necessary for the Safety of this State that a proper Test be established...\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1163\" data-end=\"1203\"\u003eIt authorizes a formal loyalty oath for:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"1205\" data-end=\"1311\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"14xms9c\" data-start=\"1205\" data-end=\"1221\"\u003ecivil officers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"pn9e1i\" data-start=\"1222\" data-end=\"1241\"\u003emilitary officers\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"6a410c\" data-start=\"1242\" data-end=\"1255\"\u003emagistrates\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1sl07vf\" data-start=\"1256\" data-end=\"1274\"\u003epublic officials\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1e87qae\" data-start=\"1275\" data-end=\"1311\"\u003epersons holding positions of trust\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1313\" data-end=\"1459\"\u003eThose refusing the prescribed oath were disqualified from office and could be proceeded against as persons dangerous to the security of the state.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1461\" data-end=\"1464\"\u003e\n\u003ch1 data-section-id=\"usqu4u\" data-start=\"1466\" data-end=\"1493\"\u003eConstitutional Importance\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1495\" data-end=\"1582\"\u003eThis manuscript demonstrates the legal transformation from colony to independent state.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1584\" data-end=\"1659\"\u003eOne of the most significant sections repeals the traditional colonial oath:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote data-start=\"1661\" data-end=\"1735\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1663\" data-end=\"1735\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1663\" data-end=\"1735\"\u003e\"...Affirmation to the King of Great Britain...are hereby repealed.\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1737\" data-end=\"1874\"\u003eThat sentence marks the formal replacement of allegiance to the British Crown with allegiance to the people and government of New Jersey.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1876\" data-end=\"1957\"\u003eFew Revolutionary manuscripts express that constitutional transition so directly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1 data-section-id=\"22i63h\" data-start=\"2550\" data-end=\"2576\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003ePhysical Characteristics\u003cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"2578\" data-end=\"2751\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1lis3mv\" data-start=\"2578\" data-end=\"2599\"\u003eOriginal laid paper\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1t66udd\" data-start=\"2600\" data-end=\"2622\"\u003eIron-gall manuscript\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"cyyw5k\" data-start=\"2623\" data-end=\"2640\"\u003eCommittee draft\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"176idz9\" data-start=\"2641\" data-end=\"2671\"\u003eNumerous editorial revisions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"d2pexd\" data-start=\"2672\" data-end=\"2711\"\u003eContemporary insertions and deletions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1tx1ezp\" data-start=\"2712\" data-end=\"2739\"\u003eOriginal legislative hand\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"15p8l8k\" data-start=\"2740\" data-end=\"2751\"\u003eTwo pages\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2753\" data-end=\"2763\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2765\" data-end=\"2778\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2765\" data-end=\"2778\"\u003eVery Good\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2780\" data-end=\"2867\"\u003ewith edge wear and ink burn consistent with eighteenth-century legislative manuscripts.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2869\" data-end=\"2872\"\u003e\n\u003ch1 data-section-id=\"cuaeo3\" data-start=\"2874\" data-end=\"2882\"\u003eRarity\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2884\" data-end=\"2972\"\u003eOriginal committee drafts of Revolutionary loyalty legislation are exceptionally scarce.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2974\" data-end=\"3002\"\u003eMost surviving examples are:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"3004\" data-end=\"3062\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"xm679r\" data-start=\"3004\" data-end=\"3026\"\u003eprinted session laws\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"ii1n7f\" data-start=\"3027\" data-end=\"3045\"\u003eengrossed copies\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"132fb7b\" data-start=\"3046\" data-end=\"3062\"\u003elater archives\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3064\" data-end=\"3144\"\u003eWorking legislative drafts documenting the evolution of the text rarely survive.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"3843\" data-end=\"3846\"\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv id=\"thread-bottom-container\" class=\"sticky bottom-0 z-10 group\/thread-bottom-container relative isolate w-full basis-auto has-data-has-thread-error:pt-2 has-data-has-thread-error:[box-shadow:var(--sharp-edge-bottom-shadow)] md:border-transparent md:pt-0 dark:border-white\/20 md:dark:border-transparent print:hidden pointer-events-none [--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] Ejxyja_threadFooterContentFade flex flex-col\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-testid=\"thread-disclaimer\" class=\"\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"min-h-9 pt-2 pb-3 text-center text-xs text-token-text-tertiary [view-transition-name:var(--vt-disclaimer)] absolute inset-x-0 bottom-[calc(100%+1*var(--spacing))] transition-opacity duration-250 group-[:not([data-show-disclaimer])]\/scroll-root:pointer-events-none group-[:not([data-show-disclaimer])]\/scroll-root:duration-50 group-[:not([data-show-disclaimer])]\/scroll-root:opacity-0\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text-base mx-auto [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52496926572826,"sku":null,"price":11995.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_1496.jpg?v=1784046573"},{"product_id":"1819-new-york-militia-commission-governor-dewitt-clinton-elisha-waters-24th-regiment-of-infantry-embossed-state-seal","title":"1819 New York Militia Commission – Governor DeWitt Clinton – Elisha Waters – 24th Regiment of Infantry – Embossed State Seal","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"e747d046-4ebb-48a6-938f-bd9839093de2\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-5\" class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+\u0026amp;]:mt-1\" tabindex=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert wrap-break-word w-full light markdown-new-styling\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2736\" data-end=\"2864\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2736\" data-end=\"2864\"\u003e1819 New York Militia Commission – Governor DeWitt Clinton – Elisha Waters – 24th Regiment of Infantry – Embossed State Seal\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2866\" data-end=\"3036\"\u003eOriginal State of New York military commission appointing \u003cstrong data-start=\"2924\" data-end=\"2941\"\u003eElisha Waters\u003c\/strong\u003e as \u003cstrong data-start=\"2945\" data-end=\"2955\"\u003eEnsign\u003c\/strong\u003e of a company in the \u003cstrong data-start=\"2976\" data-end=\"3005\"\u003e24th Regiment of Infantry\u003c\/strong\u003e of the New York State Militia.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3038\" data-end=\"3483\"\u003eIssued at Albany on \u003cstrong data-start=\"3058\" data-end=\"3076\"\u003eMarch 27, 1819\u003c\/strong\u003e, during the administration of \u003cstrong data-start=\"3107\" data-end=\"3134\"\u003eGovernor DeWitt Clinton\u003c\/strong\u003e, the commission authorizes Waters to assume command as Ensign and to exercise and discipline the officers and soldiers of his company in accordance with the laws governing the New York militia. The commission passed through the Secretary's Office on \u003cstrong data-start=\"3385\" data-end=\"3403\"\u003eMarch 31, 1819\u003c\/strong\u003e and bears the original signature of \u003cstrong data-start=\"3440\" data-end=\"3482\"\u003eSecretary of State John Van Ness Yates\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3485\" data-end=\"3851\"\u003eA particularly attractive feature is the large \u003cstrong data-start=\"3532\" data-end=\"3589\"\u003eembossed New York State seal for military commissions\u003c\/strong\u003e, displaying the American eagle in exceptional detail. The engraved heading, \u003cstrong data-start=\"3666\" data-end=\"3750\"\u003e\"The People of the State of New-York, by the Grace of God Free and Independent,\"\u003c\/strong\u003e is one of the most recognizable designs used on early nineteenth-century New York state commissions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3853\" data-end=\"3864\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"3853\" data-end=\"3864\"\u003eDetails\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"3866\" data-end=\"4366\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"aw3jrd\" data-start=\"3866\" data-end=\"3912\"\u003eOriginal New York State military commission.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"13grlor\" data-start=\"3913\" data-end=\"3940\"\u003eDated \u003cstrong data-start=\"3921\" data-end=\"3939\"\u003eMarch 27, 1819\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1ifl0ae\" data-start=\"3941\" data-end=\"3990\"\u003eAppointment of \u003cstrong data-start=\"3958\" data-end=\"3975\"\u003eElisha Waters\u003c\/strong\u003e as \u003cstrong data-start=\"3979\" data-end=\"3989\"\u003eEnsign\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"dchl2l\" data-start=\"3991\" data-end=\"4041\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"3993\" data-end=\"4022\"\u003e24th Regiment of Infantry\u003c\/strong\u003e, New York Militia.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"q2m0fm\" data-start=\"4042\" data-end=\"4097\"\u003eIssued during the governorship of \u003cstrong data-start=\"4078\" data-end=\"4096\"\u003eDeWitt Clinton\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"14j0rze\" data-start=\"4098\" data-end=\"4154\"\u003eSigned by \u003cstrong data-start=\"4110\" data-end=\"4133\"\u003eJohn Van Ness Yates\u003c\/strong\u003e, Secretary of State.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"sqlcqn\" data-start=\"4155\" data-end=\"4201\"\u003eLarge embossed New York State military seal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1p1o1nq\" data-start=\"4202\" data-end=\"4217\"\u003eFolio format.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1pwbq2m\" data-start=\"4218\" data-end=\"4366\"\u003eCondition: Very good with original folds, light edge wear, minor archival tape remnants on the reverse, and a sharp, well-preserved embossed seal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4368\" data-end=\"4531\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eAn outstanding early New York militia commission from the post-War of 1812 period, combining military, political, and state history with exceptional visual appeal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52565780234522,"sku":null,"price":875.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_1690.jpg?v=1784743155"},{"product_id":"1828-maine-militia-commission-signed-by-governor-enoch-lincoln-large-embossed-state-seal-ensign-appointment-eliphalet-adams-gilead-maine","title":"1828–1830 Maine Militia Promotion Archive—Eliphalet Adams—Two Commissions Signed by Governors Enoch Lincoln and Jonathan G. Hunton","description":"\u003cdiv class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv dir=\"auto\" class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+\u0026amp;]:mt-1\" tabindex=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert wrap-break-word w-full light markdown-new-styling\"\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eMatched pair of original State of Maine militia commissions documenting the advancement of \u003cstrong\u003eEliphalet Adams of Gilead, Oxford County\u003c\/strong\u003e, from ensign to lieutenant in the \u003cstrong\u003e1st Regiment, 2nd Brigade and 6th Division of the Maine Militia\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTogether, the two documents preserve an unusual and complete record of one early Maine officer’s promotion:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1828 Ensign Commission\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIssued August 16, 1828, under Governor \u003cstrong\u003eEnoch Lincoln\u003c\/strong\u003e, appointing Adams an ensign with rank effective June 21, 1828. The commission bears Lincoln’s autograph signature beneath a large embossed paper Seal of the State of Maine and is countersigned by the secretary of state. The reverse records Adams’s appearance on September 22, 1828, before Justice James Burbank to subscribe the constitutional oath required of a commissioned officer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1830 Lieutenant Commission\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIssued July 22, 1830, under Governor \u003cstrong\u003eJonathan G. Hunton\u003c\/strong\u003e, promoting Adams to lieutenant with rank effective June 19, 1830. Signed by Governor Hunton and countersigned by Maine Secretary of State Edward Russell. The reverse contains Adams’s qualification certificate dated September 25, 1830, before Colonel James Burbank of the 6th Regiment, together with official registration and adjutant-general’s office endorsements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistorical significance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEnoch Lincoln served as a United States congressman before becoming Maine’s sixth governor. He died in office in October 1829, limiting the number of commissions issued during his administration.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJonathan G. Hunton served as Maine’s ninth governor for less than one year, from February 1830 until January 1831. His brief administration advocated the establishment of Maine’s first state mental hospital.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe archive is particularly desirable because it documents Adams’s advancement within the same militia organization over a two-year period. Such surviving pairs are considerably less common than isolated militia appointments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCondition\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 1828 commission is in very good condition, with a bold Lincoln signature, sharply impressed state seal, original folds, moderate toning and scattered foxing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 1830 commission displays heavier use, including water staining, fold wear, old tape or paper reinforcement, scattered ink stains, minor edge losses and weakness at several folds. Governor Hunton’s signature, the large embossed state seal and the reverse qualification certificate remain intact and legible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoth documents are original, officially completed and retain their period endorsements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52576357679386,"sku":null,"price":1295.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_1705.jpg?v=1784810812"},{"product_id":"1828-massachusetts-justice-of-the-peace-commission-signed-by-governor-levi-lincoln-jr-large-embossed-state-seal","title":"1828 Massachusetts Justice of the Peace Commission Signed by Governor Levi Lincoln Jr. – Large Embossed State Seal","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"2432\" data-end=\"2659\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eAn original Commonwealth of Massachusetts gubernatorial commission issued in Boston on \u003cstrong data-start=\"2519\" data-end=\"2536\"\u003eMarch 1, 1828\u003c\/strong\u003e, appointing \u003cstrong data-start=\"2549\" data-end=\"2584\"\u003eJoshua Blake, Esquire of Boston\u003c\/strong\u003e, as \u003cstrong data-start=\"2589\" data-end=\"2632\"\u003eJustice of the Peace for Suffolk County\u003c\/strong\u003e for a term of seven years.\u003cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2661\" data-end=\"3026\"\u003eThe document is signed in a bold, elegant hand by \u003cstrong data-start=\"2711\" data-end=\"2740\"\u003eGovernor Levi Lincoln Jr.\u003c\/strong\u003e, one of Massachusetts' longest-serving governors, and countersigned by \u003cstrong data-start=\"2812\" data-end=\"2831\"\u003eEdward D. Bangs\u003c\/strong\u003e, Secretary of the Commonwealth. A beautifully preserved \u003cstrong data-start=\"2888\" data-end=\"2948\"\u003elarge embossed Seal of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts\u003c\/strong\u003e dominates the left side of the document, providing exceptional visual appeal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3028\" data-end=\"3218\"\u003eJoshua Blake was a respected Boston attorney and public official, making this an identifiable historical appointment rather than an anonymous commission.\u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3220\" data-end=\"3461\"\u003ePrinted on period laid paper with manuscript insertions throughout, the commission remains in very good condition with original folds, light age toning, and no major defects. The reverse retains the original docket identifying the recipient.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3463\" data-end=\"3824\" data-is-last-node=\"\" data-is-only-node=\"\"\u003eAn outstanding example of an early nineteenth-century Massachusetts state commission, combining an impressive embossed seal, bold gubernatorial signature, and historical association with one of Boston's prominent legal figures. Ideal for collectors of early American legal history, gubernatorial autographs, Massachusetts ephemera, and official state documents.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"179\" data-end=\"512\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1pcpl7x\" data-start=\"179\" data-end=\"208\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"181\" data-end=\"190\"\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"191\" data-end=\"208\"\u003eMarch 1, 1828\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"hdwhw4\" data-start=\"209\" data-end=\"251\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"211\" data-end=\"221\"\u003eState:\u003c\/strong\u003e Commonwealth of Massachusetts\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"8zjz0f\" data-start=\"252\" data-end=\"302\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"265\"\u003eOffice:\u003c\/strong\u003e Justice of the Peace, Suffolk County\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1r7wb12\" data-start=\"303\" data-end=\"378\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"305\" data-end=\"318\"\u003eGovernor:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"319\" data-end=\"339\"\u003eLevi Lincoln Jr.\u003c\/strong\u003e (Governor of Massachusetts, 1825–1834)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"150jcxu\" data-start=\"379\" data-end=\"435\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"381\" data-end=\"415\"\u003eSecretary of the Commonwealth:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"416\" data-end=\"435\"\u003eEdward D. Bangs\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1noq1q8\" data-start=\"436\" data-end=\"488\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"438\" data-end=\"452\"\u003eRecipient:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong data-start=\"453\" data-end=\"488\"\u003eJoshua Blake, Esquire of Boston\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"kj3for\" data-start=\"489\" data-end=\"512\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"491\" data-end=\"500\"\u003eTerm:\u003c\/strong\u003e Seven years\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"514\" data-end=\"535\"\u003eThe commission bears:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"537\" data-end=\"840\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1jo0zq8\" data-start=\"537\" data-end=\"627\"\u003eThe large embossed \u003cstrong data-start=\"558\" data-end=\"603\"\u003eSeal of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts\u003c\/strong\u003e, beautifully preserved.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"2myp46\" data-start=\"628\" data-end=\"702\"\u003eThe bold, oversized \u003cstrong data-start=\"650\" data-end=\"702\"\u003eautograph signature of Governor Levi Lincoln Jr.\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1akbaoe\" data-start=\"703\" data-end=\"773\"\u003eThe signature of \u003cstrong data-start=\"722\" data-end=\"741\"\u003eEdward D. Bangs\u003c\/strong\u003e, Secretary of the Commonwealth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1ppe4kv\" data-start=\"774\" data-end=\"840\"\u003eOriginal docketing on the reverse: \"Joshua Blake Esq., Suffolk.\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"842\" data-end=\"1044\"\u003eJoshua Blake (1778–1843) was a prominent Boston attorney and public official who served in several civic and judicial capacities during the early nineteenth century.\u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"hrykuu\" data-start=\"1046\" data-end=\"1058\"\u003eCondition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1060\" data-end=\"1070\"\u003eVery Good.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"1072\" data-end=\"1296\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"166iauj\" data-start=\"1072\" data-end=\"1091\"\u003eCrisp laid paper.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"4gmgb4\" data-start=\"1092\" data-end=\"1127\"\u003eStrong blind embossed state seal.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"gsv4w3\" data-start=\"1128\" data-end=\"1168\"\u003eDark, attractive governor's signature.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1xsw0ea\" data-start=\"1169\" data-end=\"1196\"\u003eOriginal folds as issued.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"13wkohe\" data-start=\"1197\" data-end=\"1252\"\u003eMinor edge wear and light toning consistent with age.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1dtfh9e\" data-start=\"1253\" data-end=\"1296\"\u003eNo significant losses or repairs visible.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-section-id=\"1wyzsyo\" data-start=\"1298\" data-end=\"1319\"\u003eCollector Interest\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1321\" data-end=\"1623\"\u003eMassachusetts commissions signed by \u003cstrong data-start=\"1357\" data-end=\"1377\"\u003eLevi Lincoln Jr.\u003c\/strong\u003e are desirable because Lincoln was one of the state's longest-serving governors and the son of Revolutionary statesman and U.S. Attorney General Levi Lincoln Sr. Official commissions bearing his large signature and embossed seal are collected by:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul data-start=\"1625\" data-end=\"1749\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1lj0xn4\" data-start=\"1625\" data-end=\"1651\"\u003eMassachusetts historians\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"5p8lc6\" data-start=\"1652\" data-end=\"1685\"\u003eEarly American legal collectors\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1qv22du\" data-start=\"1686\" data-end=\"1718\"\u003ePolitical autograph collectors\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"614e5e\" data-start=\"1719\" data-end=\"1749\"\u003eJudicial document collectors\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1751\" data-end=\"1812\"\u003eThe large blind seal adds considerably to its display appeal.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52583995605274,"sku":null,"price":375.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_1793.jpg?v=1785072880"},{"product_id":"1812-king-george-iii-military-commission-ensign-2nd-battalion-12th-regiment-of-foot-napoleonic-wars-royal-seal-intact","title":"1812 King George III Military Commission – Ensign, 2nd Battalion 12th Regiment of Foot – Napoleonic Wars – Royal Seal Intact","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn original British military commission issued during the reign of \u003cstrong\u003eKing George III\u003c\/strong\u003e, dated \u003cstrong\u003e14 February 1812\u003c\/strong\u003e, appointing \u003cstrong\u003eHenry Willet Loved\u003c\/strong\u003e as \u003cstrong\u003eEnsign in the Second Battalion of His Majesty's Twelfth Regiment of Foot (East Suffolk Regiment)\u003c\/strong\u003e. Issued from \u003cstrong\u003eCarlton House\u003c\/strong\u003e and signed on behalf of the Crown by \u003cstrong\u003eRobert Ryder\u003c\/strong\u003e, Secretary at War, this commission dates from the height of the Napoleonic Wars, when Britain's army was rapidly expanding to meet the demands of the conflict against Napoleon.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExecuted on large vellum in elegant manuscript calligraphy, the document retains its impressive \u003cstrong\u003eembossed royal paper seal\u003c\/strong\u003e, the \u003cstrong\u003eblue embossed revenue stamp\u003c\/strong\u003e, and the attached stamp duty receipt—features often absent from surviving examples. The commission remains highly displayable, with bold penmanship, excellent readability, and only expected folds and age wear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA handsome and historically important military document from the Napoleonic era, combining royal authority, military history, and outstanding visual appeal.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 14 February 1812\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMonarch:\u003c\/strong\u003e King George III\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRank:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ensign\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRegiment:\u003c\/strong\u003e Second Battalion, 12th (East Suffolk) Regiment of Foot\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMaterial:\u003c\/strong\u003e Vellum with embossed seals and revenue stamp\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very Good, original folds and expected age wear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMilitary Commission of Ensign\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e 14 February 1812\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMonarch:\u003c\/strong\u003e King George III\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDocument Type:\u003c\/strong\u003e Royal military commission\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRank Granted:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ensign\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eRegiment:\u003c\/strong\u003e Second Battalion, Twelfth (East Suffolk) Regiment of Foot\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOfficer Appointed:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eHenry Willet Loved\u003c\/strong\u003e (the surname appears to read \u003cem\u003eLoved\u003c\/em\u003e; the original should be checked under magnification)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eSigned by:\u003c\/strong\u003e Secretary at War \u003cstrong\u003eRobert Ryder\u003c\/strong\u003e (\"R. Ryder\")\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eCountersigned:\u003c\/strong\u003e Thomas Bruce (Secretary in the Commander-in-Chief's office)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eIssued from:\u003c\/strong\u003e Carlton House, London\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eAuthority:\u003c\/strong\u003e \"By His Majesty's Command\"\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe text appoints the recipient:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"...to be Ensign in the Second Battalion of Our Twelfth Regiment of Foot...\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 2nd Battalion of the 12th Regiment had only recently been formed in 1811 as Britain expanded its army during the Napoleonic Wars. In late 1812 the battalion went to Ireland before later service connected with the Peninsular and Waterloo period. \u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eOutstanding Features\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis example retains several features collectors seek:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLarge engraved vellum commission\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOriginal embossed royal paper seal\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBlue embossed revenue stamp\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOriginal stamp duty receipt attached\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFine George III calligraphic heading\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAttractive large signature of Robert Ryder\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOriginal filing endorsements\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese intact revenue stamps are often missing or damaged, making this example more desirable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCondition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition is \u003cstrong\u003eVery Good\u003c\/strong\u003e for a 214-year-old vellum commission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePositives:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOriginal vellum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStrong ink\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExcellent legibility\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOriginal seals remain attached\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo significant loss of text\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition issues:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFold wear\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eModerate toning\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMinor surface abrasions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSmall areas of paper reinforcement loss on reverse\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGeneral age handling\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall approximately \u003cstrong\u003eVG (Very Good)\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52606405083418,"sku":null,"price":1125.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_1934.jpg?v=1785325221"},{"product_id":"c1805-original-king-george-iii-british-army-military-commission-on-vellum-napoleonic-wars-blue-revenue-stamp","title":"c1805 Original King George III British Army Military Commission on Vellum – Napoleonic Wars – Blue Revenue Stamp","description":"\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eA handsome original British Royal Military Commission issued during the reign of King George III, appointing an officer to the British Army during the Napoleonic era. Executed on vellum in the traditional format used by the War Office, the commission bears the impressive oversized royal sign-manual \"George R\" across the upper left, together with the original embossed blue revenue stamp secured by its original silver staple.\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe text appoints the recipient to the rank of \u003cstrong\u003eCaptain\u003c\/strong\u003e, empowering him to command according to the Rules and Discipline of War. The commission was issued \"at Our Court at St. James's,\" the official royal residence from which military appointments were granted throughout the Georgian period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe document retains its original folds, period endorsements, and attractive manuscript calligraphy. British military commissions with intact revenue stamps are increasingly sought by collectors of Napoleonic War material, royal documents, and eighteenth- and nineteenth-century military history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Very good antique condition with expected folds, age toning, light surface wear, and minor edge losses. Original embossed revenue stamp remains attached.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAn excellent display piece representing Britain's military establishment during the reign of George III.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eFrom the text visible, it reads in part:\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\"George the Third by the Grace of God... We do by these Presents Constitute and Appoint you...\"\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe recipient appears to be appointed \u003cstrong\u003eCaptain\u003c\/strong\u003e in a regiment of infantry. The commission is issued \u003cstrong\u003eat the Court of St. James's\u003c\/strong\u003e, the standard wording for British Army commissions of the Napoleonic era.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eNotable features\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLarge \"George R\" royal sign-manual\u003c\/strong\u003e at upper left (\"R\" = Rex)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePrinted on \u003cstrong\u003evellum (animal skin)\u003c\/strong\u003e rather than paper\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOriginal \u003cstrong\u003eblue embossed revenue stamp\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOriginal \u003cstrong\u003esilver revenue staple\/tack\u003c\/strong\u003e securing the stamp\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMilitary registration endorsements at lower left\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eFolded as originally carried\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eContemporary docketing on reverse\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese commissions were issued under royal authority and are collected by military historians, Napoleonic collectors, and autograph collectors. Similar commissions are preserved in institutional collections and typically retain the distinctive blue revenue stamp and paper seals. \u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eApproximate Date\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBased upon:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003estyle of engraving\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eblue embossed revenue stamp\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ewording\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ehandwriting\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eformat\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eI believe this commission dates to approximately \u003cstrong\u003e1803–1813\u003c\/strong\u003e, during the Napoleonic Wars.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe exact year is difficult to read from these photographs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCondition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall: \u003cstrong\u003eVery Good (-)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePositives:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eComplete vellum\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExcellent large George III signature\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOriginal blue revenue stamp\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOriginal silver staple\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStrong manuscript\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDetractions:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeavy folds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eModerate surface wear\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLight staining and toning\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSmall edge losses\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSeal absent (if originally attached)\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall still an attractive display piece.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52616153399578,"sku":null,"price":1250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/1d82f9ee-1962-4535-bd2e-233afe450891.jpg?v=1786259044"},{"product_id":"1824-william-eustis-signed-massachusetts-militia-commission-governor-revolutionary-war-veteran","title":"1824 William Eustis Signed Massachusetts Militia Commission — Governor \u0026 Revolutionary War Veteran","description":"\u003ch1\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1824 William Eustis Signed Massachusetts Militia Commission — Governor \u0026amp; Revolutionary War Veteran\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRare Original 1824 Massachusetts Military Commission Signed by Governor William Eustis\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAn important original Massachusetts military commission dated \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMarch 23, 1824\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, appointing the recipient \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCaptain in the Second Regiment of Infantry, Second Brigade, Third Division of the Militia of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe commission was issued by \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHis Excellency William Eustis, Governor and Commander in Chief of Massachusetts\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, and is boldly signed by Eustis as \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e“Wm Eustis.”\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e It is additionally endorsed by \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eEdward D. Bangs, Secretary of the Commonwealth\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, and bears the impressive embossed seal of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe document states that the recipient had been elected to the office of Captain on \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMarch 19, 1824\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, and formally commissions him to exercise the duties and authority of the position under the laws and military regulations of the Commonwealth.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWilliam Eustis (1753–1825)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e was a distinguished American physician, Revolutionary War surgeon, politician and statesman. He served as a physician and surgeon during the American Revolution, later represented Massachusetts in Congress, served as \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSecretary of War under President James Madison\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, and was elected Governor of Massachusetts in 1823. He remained governor until his death in 1825.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis commission therefore represents Eustis during the final years of his life and during his tenure as Massachusetts governor. It also provides a tangible record of the organization of the Massachusetts militia in the early Federal period.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eParticularly noteworthy is the large embossed Commonwealth seal, which remains clearly visible despite the document's age and handling.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHistorical associations:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e William Eustis • Massachusetts • Revolutionary War • Governor of Massachusetts • Secretary of War • Massachusetts Militia • Early American Military History • Federal Period\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCondition:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Good. Original 1824 paper with substantial period folds, foxing and staining, localized paper losses and small holes at the fold intersections, and general age wear. The embossed Commonwealth seal remains present and attractive, and the important William Eustis signature remains clear and legible. The document has not been excessively restored and retains its original historical character.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA scarce and highly desirable signed Massachusetts gubernatorial military commission from the early Republic.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52702583390490,"sku":null,"price":495.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2106.jpg?v=1786818305"},{"product_id":"1726-robert-walpole-treasury-order-105-412-for-the-office-of-ordnance-signed-by-four-treasury-commissioners","title":"1726 Robert Walpole Treasury Order — £105,412 for the Office of Ordnance, Signed by Four Treasury Commissioners","description":"\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eExceptional 1726 Treasury Document Signed by Robert Walpole and Three Fellow Treasury Commissioners\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA remarkable original \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e1726 British Treasury document\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, signed by \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSir Robert Walpole\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, Britain's first de facto Prime Minister, together with three other senior members of his Treasury administration.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDated \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eApril 19, 1726\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, from the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWhitehall Treasury Chamber\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, the document orders the payment of the extraordinary sum of \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e£105,412 14s. 3d.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e to \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJohn Plumptree\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, Treasurer and Paymaster of the Office of Ordnance.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe payment was authorized for \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\"land and sea services\"\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e performed and to be performed by the Office of Ordnance, the government department responsible for Britain's artillery, arms, ammunition, military stores and related services.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003eFour Important Treasury Signatures\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe document bears the signatures of:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSir Robert Walpole (1676–1745)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e — First Lord of the Treasury and Chancellor of the Exchequer, conventionally regarded as Britain's first Prime Minister.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSir Charles Turner, 1st Baronet (1666–1738)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e — prominent Whig politician and Lord of the Treasury, as well as Walpole's brother-in-law.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eGeorge Bubb Dodington (1691–1762)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e — prominent Whig politician and Lord of the Treasury under Walpole.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSir William Strickland, 4th Baronet (c.1686–1735)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e — Lord of the Treasury from 1725–1727 and later Secretary at War.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe Treasury commission in place at this time included Walpole, Turner, Dodington and Strickland, making this an unusually attractive example of the financial machinery of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWalpole ministry\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe document orders payment to \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJohn Plumptree\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, Treasurer of the Ordnance, an office documented in contemporary Treasury warrants preserved in the British Library.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHistorical Importance\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe date, April 1726, places the document at the height of Robert Walpole's first administration and during a period of substantial British military expenditure. Britain was also engaged in a growing confrontation with Spain, and Admiral Hosier's fleet was dispatched to the Spanish West Indies that same month.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAlthough the document should not be specifically attributed to financing Hosier's expedition without additional evidence, its enormous authorization of more than \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e£105,000 for Ordnance land and sea services\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e provides a remarkable record of the scale of British governmental and military expenditure during the period.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe document is especially desirable because it is not merely a Walpole autograph. It records a major financial action of the Treasury and bears the signatures of \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003efour members of the government responsible for administering the nation's finances\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDate:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e April 19, 1726\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePlace:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Whitehall Treasury Chamber, London\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRecipient:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e John Plumptree, Treasurer and Paymaster of the Office of Ordnance\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAmount:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e £105,412 14s. 3d.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSubject:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Payment for land and sea services of the Office of Ordnance\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCondition:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Good. Original 18th-century paper with substantial period folds, light staining and foxing, edge wear and localized losses\/tears. The manuscript remains highly legible, and the four important Treasury signatures remain clear and collectible.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52702771773722,"sku":null,"price":3975.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2116.jpg?v=1786821675"},{"product_id":"1720s-spanish-colonial-mexico-military-commission-don-juan-captain-jacinto-de-fuentes-signed-by-juan-de-acuna-marques-de-casafuerte-viceroy-of-new-spain","title":"1720s Spanish Colonial Mexico Military Commission — Don Juan, Captain Jacinto de Fuentes — Signed by Juan de Acuña, Marqués de Casafuerte, Viceroy of New Spain","description":"\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOriginal Spanish Colonial Military Manuscript — New Spain — Presidio Infantry Company — Marqués de Casafuerte\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOffered is an important original Spanish colonial military document appointing \u003cstrong\u003eDon Jacinto de Fuentes as Captain of a Company of Spanish Infantry serving in a presidio of New Spain\u003c\/strong\u003e, during the administration of \u003cstrong\u003eDon Juan de Acuña y Bejarano, Marqués de Casafuerte (1658–1734), Viceroy of New Spain\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe manuscript begins with the formal language announcing that the infantry company is vacant and that Captain Don Jacinto de Fuentes is to receive command. The document concerns the organization and command of a military company and reflects the Spanish Crown's extensive military administration of the northern frontier of New Spain.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOf exceptional importance is the large signature appearing at the head of the document, which \u003cstrong\u003eappears to read “D. Juan de Acuña.”\u003c\/strong\u003e Juan de Acuña was the celebrated \u003cstrong\u003eMarqués de Casafuerte and Viceroy of New Spain from 1722 to 1734\u003c\/strong\u003e. He was one of the most important military and governmental figures in colonial Mexico and was responsible for major reforms of the presidial system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDuring Casafuerte's administration, Brigadier Pedro de Rivera conducted his famous inspection of the northern presidios, resulting in substantial reforms concerning the organization, personnel, pay and discipline of the frontier garrisons. Surviving archival records document Acuña's direct involvement in these military reforms. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe manuscript retains a \u003cstrong\u003elarge embossed Spanish colonial paper seal\u003c\/strong\u003e, now substantially damaged but still clearly visible. The document exhibits the folds, wear and handling expected of an official manuscript that was carried and preserved as part of an 18th-century administrative record.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHistorical significance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an unusually tangible document from the military administration of \u003cstrong\u003eNew Spain's frontier presidios\u003c\/strong\u003e, providing the name of an individual officer, his appointment to command, and the authority of the viceroy under whom he served.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFor collectors of \u003cstrong\u003eSpanish colonial America, New Spain, early Mexican history, military history, presidios, Spanish colonial manuscripts and important viceroyal autographs\u003c\/strong\u003e, this is an especially attractive piece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAn original 18th-century manuscript—not a modern reproduction or later transcription.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52703014584602,"sku":null,"price":3985.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2130.jpg?v=1786833939"},{"product_id":"james-monroe-signed-1817-military-bounty-land-patent-war-of-1812-veteran-illinois","title":"James Monroe Signed 1817 Military Bounty Land Patent — War of 1812 Veteran — Illinois","description":"\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJames Monroe Presidential Land Patent — 1817\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIssued to Covington Mezzick, Private in the 38th Regiment of Infantry\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAn important original \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003emilitary bounty-land patent signed by President James Monroe during his first year in office\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, granting 160 acres in the Territory of Illinois to \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCovington Mezzick\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, a private in \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRothrock's Company of the Thirty-Eighth Regiment of Infantry\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe patent grants:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e160 acres — Southwest Quarter of Section 13, Township 2 North, Range 6 West, Territory of Illinois\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe grant was issued under the Acts of Congress appropriating and granting land to soldiers of the late Army of the United States. It represents the federal government's compensation of veterans of the \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWar of 1812\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e through military bounty land.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe document bears the original presidential signature of \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJames Monroe\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, fifth President of the United States, together with the signature of \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eJosiah Meigs\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, Commissioner of the General Land Office. The official government seal remains attached.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe patent is identified as \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWarrant No. 13,691\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e. The surviving index to the Illinois Military Patent Book records \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCovington Mezzick on page 64\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, providing important documentary confirmation of the grant.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe unusual name of Covington Mezzick is also of particular historical interest. Contemporary genealogical records identify a Covington Messick in the Delaware\/Maryland Eastern Shore region, and War of 1812 muster records contain the name “Coventon Mezzick.” Further research may establish the veteran's family and military history.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThis document is especially desirable because it combines \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ean original James Monroe presidential signature, first-year-of-presidency dating, War of 1812 military service, an Illinois military bounty-land grant, an identified veteran, and an original federal government seal\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"isSelectedEnd\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePresident:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e James Monroe (1758–1831)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eOffice:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e President of the United States\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eDate:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 1817\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRecipient:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Covington Mezzick\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMilitary Rank:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Private\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eUnit:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Rothrock's Company, 38th Regiment of Infantry\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eWarrant:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e No. 13,691\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLand:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e 160 acres\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLocation:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Southwest Quarter, Section 13, Township 2 North, Range 6 West, Territory of Illinois\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCommissioner:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Josiah Meigs, Commissioner of the General Land Office\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eHistorical Period:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e War of 1812 \/ Early American Republic\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCondition:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Original with substantial period folds, toning, foxing, edge wear and losses, and wear surrounding the paper seal. Monroe's signature remains clearly visible.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA highly collectible piece of \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003epresidential, military, and early Illinois history\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan\u003e, documenting the federal government's compensation of a War of 1812 veteran during the opening year of James Monroe's presidency.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003eMore info...\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCovington Mezzick\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003edescribed as a \u003cstrong\u003eprivate in Rothrock's Company, 38th Regiment of Infantry\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt grants him:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e160 acres\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ethe \u003cstrong\u003eSouthwest Quarter of Section 13, Township 2 North, Range 6 West\u003c\/strong\u003e, in the \u003cstrong\u003eTerritory of Illinois\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe patent is \u003cstrong\u003eWarrant No. 13,691\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe document is signed:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eJames Monroe\u003c\/strong\u003e, President of the United States\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eJosiah Meigs\u003c\/strong\u003e, Commissioner of the General Land Office\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe printed text specifically states that the grant is made pursuant to the acts of Congress appropriating land to the \u003cstrong\u003elate Army of the United States\u003c\/strong\u003e—the federal military bounty-land program for veterans of the War of 1812.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe surviving index to the Illinois military patent book confirms \u003cstrong\u003e“Mezzick, Covington” on page 64\u003c\/strong\u003e, providing particularly useful documentary corroboration for this exact recipient. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAn important additional discovery\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCovington Mezzick was associated with the Delaware\/Maryland Eastern Shore Messick family\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA genealogical history records a \u003cstrong\u003eCovington Messick who married Hannah Tindal in 1816\u003c\/strong\u003e, and the family was established in Delaware. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven more interestingly, a War of 1812 muster compilation contains the name \u003cstrong\u003e“Coventon Mezzick”\u003c\/strong\u003e among Maryland Eastern Shore militia personnel in 1813. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWe do \u003cstrong\u003enot yet state that the two records are definitively the same man\u003c\/strong\u003e, because the patent identifies him as a federal 38th Regiment infantryman rather than simply a Maryland militia soldier. But the unusual name makes the connection quite plausible and worth pursuing through the National Archives pension\/military records.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDate\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe patent is clearly a \u003cstrong\u003e1817 Monroe document\u003c\/strong\u003e, and the handwritten date appears to be in \u003cstrong\u003eNovember 1817\u003c\/strong\u003e. The wording visible on the document reads:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Washington, this ___ day of November in the Year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and seventeen…”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis places it in \u003cstrong\u003eMonroe's first year as President\u003c\/strong\u003e, which adds substantially to its desirability.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52704501137690,"sku":null,"price":1250.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2151.jpg?v=1786882307"},{"product_id":"james-monroe-signed-1801-virginia-militia-commission-governor-of-virginia-original-commonwealth-seal","title":"JAMES MONROE SIGNED 1801 VIRGINIA MILITIA COMMISSION — GOVERNOR OF VIRGINIA — ORIGINAL COMMONWEALTH SEAL","description":"\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOriginal military commission signed by James Monroe as Governor of Virginia, January 29, 1801.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn important early document signed by \u003cstrong\u003eJames Monroe (1758–1831)\u003c\/strong\u003e, the fifth President of the United States, while serving as \u003cstrong\u003eGovernor of Virginia\u003c\/strong\u003e. Dated at Richmond on \u003cstrong\u003eJanuary 29, 1801\u003c\/strong\u003e, this official Commonwealth of Virginia commission appoints \u003cstrong\u003eNathaniel Price as a Lieutenant in the Virginia militia\u003c\/strong\u003e, upon the recommendation of the court of \u003cstrong\u003ePrince Edward County\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe document is handsomely printed with manuscript insertions and is boldly signed at the conclusion \u003cstrong\u003e“Jas. Monroe.”\u003c\/strong\u003e It retains its \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal applied paper seal of the Commonwealth of Virginia\u003c\/strong\u003e, providing an especially attractive example of an early Virginia gubernatorial commission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMonroe was serving his first term as Governor of Virginia at the time. His administration placed considerable emphasis on the state's militia, and his governorship coincided with the dramatic events surrounding \u003cstrong\u003eGabriel's Rebellion of 1800\u003c\/strong\u003e, making surviving militia appointments from this period particularly interesting historical artifacts. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is an \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal 1801 document\u003c\/strong\u003e, not a later reproduction, and represents Monroe's signature in an official governmental capacity more than sixteen years before he became President.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJames Monroe signed documents from his Virginia governorship are highly collectible\u003c\/strong\u003e, with comparable 1800–1801 military appointments bringing several hundred dollars to more than $1,000 at auction, depending upon condition and presentation. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original folds, age toning and scattered staining consistent with an early 19th-century document. Some wear to the paper and seal, but the document remains substantially complete with the important original seal present. Monroe's signature is clear and highly legible.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eA remarkable piece of Virginia history and an excellent signed document from James Monroe's gubernatorial career.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52704642892058,"sku":null,"price":895.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2163.jpg?v=1786892885"},{"product_id":"james-monroe-signed-1817-presidential-land-patent-war-of-1812-veteran-illinois-military-bounty-land","title":"JAMES MONROE SIGNED 1817 PRESIDENTIAL LAND PATENT — WAR OF 1812 VETERAN — ILLINOIS MILITARY BOUNTY LAND","description":"\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExceptional original 1817 United States land patent signed by President James Monroe during his first year in the White House.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn important original document signed \u003cstrong\u003e“James Monroe”\u003c\/strong\u003e as President of the United States, granting \u003cstrong\u003e160 acres of military bounty land in Illinois to Covington Mezzick\u003c\/strong\u003e, identified in the patent as a \u003cstrong\u003elate private in the Thirty-Eighth Regiment of Infantry\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIssued in \u003cstrong\u003eWashington, D.C., in November 1817\u003c\/strong\u003e, only months after Monroe's inauguration as the fifth President of the United States, the document was issued pursuant to congressional legislation providing land bounties to veterans of the War of 1812.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe patent bears the bold presidential signature of \u003cstrong\u003eJames Monroe\u003c\/strong\u003e and is countersigned by \u003cstrong\u003eJosiah Meigs, Commissioner of the General Land Office\u003c\/strong\u003e. The document retains its original \u003cstrong\u003eembossed\/applied federal land-office seal\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn especially important feature is the extensive evidence of subsequent use on the reverse. The patent was later recorded in \u003cstrong\u003ePike County, Illinois, on October 15, 1823\u003c\/strong\u003e, providing an unusually tangible connection between the presidential document and the actual transfer and recording of the veteran's land title.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFederal records independently list \u003cstrong\u003eCovington Mezzick in the Illinois Military Patent Book\u003c\/strong\u003e, confirming his appearance in the official military-land records. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMonroe's signed presidential land patents are highly collectible examples of early American presidential autographs. Comparable 1817 Monroe military land grants have sold at auction from approximately \u003cstrong\u003e$475 to over $1,100\u003c\/strong\u003e, depending upon condition, presentation and authentication. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original folds and substantial age toning, staining and surface wear. The paper seal is present but damaged. Some manuscript portions have faded, while \u003cstrong\u003eMonroe's signature remains clearly legible\u003c\/strong\u003e. The document is complete enough to retain its full historical significance and extensive subsequent land-record endorsements.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAn outstanding piece of presidential, military and western land-settlement history—signed by James Monroe in the first year of his presidency.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52704646037786,"sku":null,"price":1605.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2173.jpg?v=1786893639"},{"product_id":"1837-new-york-military-commission-major-general-garrit-h-striker-signed-by-governor-william-l-marcy","title":"1837 NEW YORK MILITARY COMMISSION — MAJOR GENERAL GARRIT H. STRIKER — SIGNED BY GOVERNOR WILLIAM L. MARCY","description":"\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eExceptional Original New York State Military Commission — 1837\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSigned by Marcy - Cooined term \"spoils system\"\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOffered is an \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal February 22, 1837 New York State military commission appointing Garrit H. Striker Major General of the 28th Division of Infantry\u003c\/strong\u003e, with the rank dating from February 17, 1837.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe beautifully engraved document is issued in the name of the \u003cstrong\u003eState of New-York\u003c\/strong\u003e and bears the \u003cstrong\u003eoriginal signature of William L. Marcy\u003c\/strong\u003e, then Governor of New York and Commander-in-Chief of the state's militia. Marcy would later serve as \u003cstrong\u003eUnited States Secretary of War under President James K. Polk and Secretary of State under President Franklin Pierce\u003c\/strong\u003e, making his signature particularly desirable to collectors of American political and military history. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commission also carries the contemporary endorsement\/signature of \u003cstrong\u003eAllan Macdonald, Adjutant-General\u003c\/strong\u003e, who served in that office during the period. New York State Library holdings document Macdonald's official military activities and orders during 1837. \u003cspan class=\"contents\"\u003e\u003cspan class=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commission appoints \u003cstrong\u003eGarrit H. Striker as Major General of the 28th Division of Infantry\u003c\/strong\u003e, providing a fascinating glimpse into the organization of the New York militia immediately before and during the politically turbulent period surrounding the \u003cstrong\u003ePatriot War of 1837–1838\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe document retains its impressive \u003cstrong\u003eembossed New York State seal\u003c\/strong\u003e, engraved typography, manuscript endorsements and original signatures. The reverse also contains contemporary administrative notations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn excellent piece of \u003cstrong\u003eNew York State, militia, political and military history\u003c\/strong\u003e, and an especially attractive document for collectors of \u003cstrong\u003egovernors' signatures, American military commissions and 19th-century governmental documents\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e February 22, 1837\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRank:\u003c\/strong\u003e Major General\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOfficer:\u003c\/strong\u003e Garrit H. Striker\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCommand:\u003c\/strong\u003e 28th Division of Infantry, New York State Militia\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSigned:\u003c\/strong\u003e William L. Marcy, Governor of New York\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAlso signed\/endorsed:\u003c\/strong\u003e Allan Macdonald, Adjutant-General\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Embossed New York State seal\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original, with expected folds, age toning, minor staining and edge wear\/tears; overall a highly attractive and exceptionally interesting survivor.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52707686154522,"sku":null,"price":995.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2212.jpg?v=1786980971"},{"product_id":"napoleon-bonaparte-signed-1801-consular-guard-officer-s-commission","title":"Napoleon Bonaparte Signed 1801 Consular Guard Officer’s Commission","description":"\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eMilitary commission signed by \u003cstrong\u003eNapoleon Bonaparte as First Consul of the French Republic\u003c\/strong\u003e, appointing veteran soldier \u003cstrong\u003eJean-Joseph Deneuilly\u003c\/strong\u003e a titular second lieutenant of grenadiers in the infantry of the elite \u003cstrong\u003eGarde des Consuls\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIssued at Paris on \u003cstrong\u003e7 Germinal, Year IX of the French Republic—March 28, 1801\u003c\/strong\u003e, the impressive engraved and manuscript document is executed on vellum and headed “République Française.” Its finely engraved allegorical vignette depicts the seated figure of the Republic between the principles “Liberté” and “Égalité,” above the words “Honneur et Consul de la République.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commission records Deneuilly’s military career, beginning with his entry into the Penthièvre Infantry Regiment in 1784 and continuing through the campaigns of the French Revolution. Napoleon appoints him to the rank of second lieutenant in the infantry of the Consular Guard, the celebrated elite corps that subsequently evolved into the Imperial Guard.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSigned prominently \u003cstrong\u003e“Bonaparte”\u003c\/strong\u003e as First Consul and countersigned by \u003cstrong\u003eLouis-Alexandre Berthier\u003c\/strong\u003e, Minister of War and Napoleon’s indispensable chief of staff, and \u003cstrong\u003eHugues-Bernard Maret\u003c\/strong\u003e, Secretary of State. The large embossed seal of the French Republic remains affixed at the foot.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe document exhibits expected age toning, fading to portions of the manuscript entries, scattered staining and handling wear, and minor marginal imperfections. The engraved design, principal text, seal, and signatures remain clearly visible. Unframed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA visually imposing and historically important artifact from the formative years of Napoleon’s rule, directly connected to the elite Consular Guard and bearing the signatures of three principal figures of the Napoleonic government.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52731847016730,"sku":null,"price":6995.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2354.jpg?v=1787389504"},{"product_id":"1703-louis-joseph-duke-of-vendome-signed-military-discharge-wounded-soldier-war-of-the-spanish-succession","title":"1703 Louis-Joseph, Duke of Vendôme Signed Military Discharge — Wounded Soldier, War of the Spanish Succession","description":"\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eOriginal partially printed military pass signed by \u003cstrong\u003eLouis-Joseph de Bourbon, Duke of Vendôme\u003c\/strong\u003e, Marshal of France and one of the most celebrated French commanders of the reign of Louis XIV.\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIssued at Mirandola, Italy, apparently on May 20, 1703, the document grants free passage to a soldier of the \u003cstrong\u003eRégiment d’Auvergne\u003c\/strong\u003e whose name appears to be Jean Rousselot. It states that the soldier can no longer serve because of his wounds and is traveling to the Invalides.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe imposing printed heading recites Vendôme’s extensive titles, including Duke of Vendôme, Mercœur and Étampes; Prince of Anet and Martigues; Peer and General of the Galleys of France; Governor of Provence; former Viceroy and Captain General in Catalonia; commander of the French armies in Italy; and Knight of the Golden Fleece.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSigned prominently at the conclusion:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e“Louis duc de Vendosme”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVendôme was a great-grandson of King Henry IV and a leading Bourbon prince. During the War of the Spanish Succession, he commanded French forces in Italy against Prince Eugene of Savoy and established a reputation as one of France’s finest battlefield commanders.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn evocative military document recording the human consequences of Louis XIV’s wars: the formal discharge and passage of a wounded veteran from active service to the Invalides.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCondition is fair, with folds, soiling, edge losses, scattered staining, manuscript fading and a large blue archival stamp. Vendôme’s signature remains clear and substantial. Verso docketed in a contemporary or early hand.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52734951751962,"sku":null,"price":695.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2434.jpg?v=1787514469"},{"product_id":"edward-rutledge-declaration-signer-important-1797-letter-on-charleston-s-military-defenses-and-100-000-appropriation","title":"Edward Rutledge, Declaration Signer — Important 1797 Letter on Charleston’s Military Defenses and $100,000 Appropriation","description":"\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eRemarkable autograph letter signed \u003cstrong\u003e“Ed: Rutledge”\u003c\/strong\u003e by \u003cstrong\u003eEdward Rutledge (1749–1800)\u003c\/strong\u003e, South Carolina statesman, future governor, and the youngest signer of the Declaration of Independence. Dated December 13, 1797, the approximately three-page letter is addressed on its integral address leaf to Rutledge’s nephew, \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Rutledge Jr., South Carolina representative in Congress at Philadelphia\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWriting during the closing days of the South Carolina legislative session, Rutledge reports that a joint committee had unanimously recommended an appropriation of \u003cstrong\u003e$100,000 for military purposes\u003c\/strong\u003e. He explains that approximately half would be devoted to the purchase of brass field artillery and the balance to fortifying Charleston Harbor. He further notes that the Senate had concurred and discusses the proposed construction of a battery or redoubt. Additional passages concern pending legislation, government contracts, and Rutledge-family news.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe letter provides firsthand evidence of South Carolina’s preparations for coastal defense during the international tensions of the late 1790s. Its political and military content, substantial length, association between two members of the distinguished Rutledge family, and original congressional address panel make it an unusually desirable Declaration-signer letter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe manuscript exhibits extensive historic water staining, fold wear, fading, localized paper weakness, and abrasion near the signature. Nevertheless, most of the text remains legible, and the characteristic \u003cstrong\u003e“Ed: Rutledge”\u003c\/strong\u003e signature is identifiable.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eJohn Rutledge Jr. was then representing South Carolina in the Fifth United States Congress at Philadelphia. The family relationship and congressional address strongly support the identification.\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eHistorical content\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRutledge reports on the closing days of a legislative session and describes several measures before the South Carolina House. The most significant passage reads approximately:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“We have agreed unanimously in a joint Committee to recommend to the House the voting 100,000 Dollars for military purposes—about one half towards the purchase of brass field artillery, \u0026amp; the other half for the fortifying the Harbour…”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHe adds that the Senate concurred and mentions the planned construction of a battery or redoubt—apparently part of Charleston’s coastal defenses during the worsening international tensions of the late 1790s. He also discusses a bill concerning clothing and family news, ending:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“My love to Sarah, Major \u0026amp; Mrs. Pinckney. God bless you—your very dear nephew…”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe political and military content is substantially more desirable than an ordinary social or routine business letter.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCondition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe letter has serious but stable-looking condition problems:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eExtensive old water staining and tide marks\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeavy folds with localized weakness and small separations\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePaper loss or abrasion near the signature\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGeneral soiling and discoloration\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eInk fading in portions, although most of the text remains decipherable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eSignature is affected by staining\/abrasion but is still identifiable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52737626013978,"sku":null,"price":5500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2457.jpg?v=1787585449"},{"product_id":"caleb-strong-war-of-1812-massachusetts-cavalry-commission-signed-as-governor-1813","title":"Caleb Strong — War of 1812 Massachusetts Cavalry Commission Signed as Governor, 1813","description":"\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eOriginal partially printed Massachusetts military commission signed \u003cstrong\u003e“Caleb Strong”\u003c\/strong\u003e by Governor \u003cstrong\u003eCaleb Strong\u003c\/strong\u003e, appointing \u003cstrong\u003eAbner Young as lieutenant of a cavalry company in the Second Brigade, Seventh Division of the Massachusetts Militia\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYoung was elected on May 4, 1813, and the commission was formally issued on May 28, 1813. It is countersigned by \u003cstrong\u003eAlden Bradford\u003c\/strong\u003e, secretary of the Commonwealth and future governor of Massachusetts. The reverse contains a printed and manuscript certificate recording Young’s personal appearance and qualification for office on September 15, 1813.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commission retains its impressive original embossed Massachusetts state seal, depicting the Commonwealth’s historic Native American figure and arm-and-sword crest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCaleb Strong was a delegate to the Constitutional Convention, United States senator, and long-serving governor of Massachusetts. A leading Federalist opponent of the War of 1812, Strong resisted federal attempts to assume direct command of the Massachusetts militia. Issued during the height of that dispute, this cavalry commission is a tangible artifact of both the war and the struggle between state and federal military authority.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExpected folds with several small holes and separations, irregular edge wear, scattered foxing, staining and toning. Strong’s signature, Bradford’s countersignature, the reverse qualification certificate, and the large embossed seal remain visible.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52737654063386,"sku":null,"price":695.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2471.jpg?v=1787587685"},{"product_id":"caleb-strong-1805-massachusetts-justice-of-the-peace-commission-for-maine-with-great-seal","title":"Caleb Strong — 1805 Massachusetts Justice of the Peace Commission for Maine with Great Seal","description":"\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eImpressive original Massachusetts judicial commission signed \u003cstrong\u003e“Caleb Strong”\u003c\/strong\u003e by Founding-era statesman and Governor \u003cstrong\u003eCaleb Strong\u003c\/strong\u003e, appointing \u003cstrong\u003eJoseph Allen Jr. of New Gloucester as a justice of the peace for Cumberland County\u003c\/strong\u003e. Issued at Boston on January 18, 1805, for a term of seven years.\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eNew Gloucester was then part of Massachusetts, nearly fifteen years before Maine achieved statehood. The commission empowered Allen to preserve the public peace, hear complaints, investigate thefts, trespasses, riots and unlawful assemblies, require bonds for good behavior, and commit offenders to jail when warranted.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe document is countersigned by \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Avery Jr.\u003c\/strong\u003e, longtime secretary of the Commonwealth. Its reverse contains Allen’s oath-of-office certification, apparently witnessed by Massachusetts Governor’s Council members \u003cstrong\u003eSalem Towne and Artemas Ward\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCaleb Strong represented Massachusetts at the Constitutional Convention, participated in the state’s ratifying convention, served as one of its first United States senators, and held the governorship for eleven years. His long public career extended from the American Revolution through the War of 1812.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commission retains its large and visually impressive embossed Massachusetts seal bearing the Commonwealth’s Native American figure and arm-and-sword crest.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExpected folds, moderate toning, scattered staining, several small fold holes and short edge tears. Strong’s signature, Avery’s countersignature, reverse certification, and embossed state seal remain well preserved.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eHistorical significance\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCaleb Strong (1745–1819)\u003c\/strong\u003e was an important Founding-era statesman:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDelegate to the 1787 Constitutional Convention\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMember of the Massachusetts convention that ratified the Constitution\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eOne of Massachusetts’s first United States senators\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGovernor of Massachusetts from 1800–1807 and again from 1812–1816\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Avery Jr. (1739–1806)\u003c\/strong\u003e served for many years as secretary of Massachusetts. He was secretary of the Commonwealth when Massachusetts commissioned its delegation—including Caleb Strong—to attend the Constitutional Convention.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"\"\u003eThe signatures on the reverse appear to include \u003cstrong\u003eSalem Towne\u003c\/strong\u003e and \u003cstrong\u003eArtemas Ward\u003c\/strong\u003e, identified as members of the Governor’s Council. Further handwriting comparison is warranted before advertising the reverse names as fully authenticated signatures.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe document empowered Allen to preserve the peace, hear complaints, punish violations, require security for good behavior, commit offenders to jail, and participate with other justices in hearing cases involving thefts, trespasses, riots, unlawful assemblies, and other offenses.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eCondition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOverall, this is an attractive example despite expected wear:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMultiple original folds\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eModerate toning and scattered staining\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eEdge wear and several short tears\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA few small fold holes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eMinor old paper or adhesive remnants on the reverse\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStrong printed text and generally legible manuscript\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCaleb Strong’s signature is large and clear\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eJohn Avery’s signature is well preserved\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eThe unusually large embossed seal remains substantially complete with only minor losses to its pointed border\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe surviving seal is a significant positive feature.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52737657110810,"sku":null,"price":795.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2474.jpg?v=1787588051"},{"product_id":"1796-revolutionary-general-james-wood-signed-virginia-militia-commission-to-colonel-james-mcdowell","title":"1796 Revolutionary General James Wood Signed Virginia Militia Commission to Colonel James McDowell","description":"\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eOriginal Commonwealth of Virginia military commission signed by \u003cstrong\u003eJames Wood\u003c\/strong\u003e, Revolutionary War brigadier general, acting governor and future governor of Virginia. Dated at Richmond on \u003cstrong\u003eJune 28, 1796\u003c\/strong\u003e, it appoints Revolutionary veteran \u003cstrong\u003eJames McDowell of Rockbridge County\u003c\/strong\u003e lieutenant colonel commandant of the Eighth Regiment, Third Brigade and Third Division of the Virginia militia.\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Library of Virginia records this exact date as McDowell’s promotion to colonel. McDowell had served in the Continental Army and participated in the Yorktown campaign. He later became sheriff of Rockbridge County, served as a longtime trustee of Washington College—now Washington and Lee University—and commanded Virginia militia during the War of 1812. He was the father of James McDowell, governor of Virginia from 1843 to 1846 and later a United States congressman.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eJames Wood was an officer of the Continental Army who commanded Virginia troops during the Philadelphia and Monmouth campaigns. He later supervised prisoners from General Burgoyne’s captured army, served on Virginia’s Executive Council and acted as governor during the absences of sitting governors. Several months after signing this commission, Wood was elected governor of Virginia and served three consecutive terms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reverse contains a July 1796 Rockbridge County court certification recording that McDowell produced the commission in court and qualified according to law.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA historically significant early Virginia military appointment connecting two prominent Revolutionary veterans, the governorship of James Wood, the War of 1812 and the influential McDowell family of Rockbridge County.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePrinted and manuscript document on laid paper, approximately folio size when opened, bearing the partially preserved embossed seal of the Commonwealth. Considerable age and administrative wear, including heavy folds, extensive fold separations, paper losses, staining, edge wear and old reinforcement over the seal. Despite these faults, the principal James Wood signature, McDowell’s name and rank, date and essential appointment language remain legible.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52741466259738,"sku":null,"price":795.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2558.jpg?v=1787675320"},{"product_id":"1862-a-fight-has-been-going-on-all-day-at-manassas-union-military-telegram-from-general-john-a-dix-august-31-1862","title":"1862 “A Fight Has Been Going On All Day at Manassas”—Union Military Telegram from General John A. Dix, August 31, 1862","description":"\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003ePlease note. We do not believethat the signature is from Dix's hand. It was evidently written by the telegraph operator.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eOriginal \u003cstrong\u003eUnited States Military Telegraph\u003c\/strong\u003e dispatch from Union Major General \u003cstrong\u003eJohn A. Dix\u003c\/strong\u003e to Major General \u003cstrong\u003eErasmus D. Keyes\u003c\/strong\u003e, received August 31, 1862, immediately following the catastrophic Union defeat at the Second Battle of Bull Run:\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“A fight has been going on all day at Manassas. No particulars.\u003cbr\u003eJohn A. Dix\u003cbr\u003eMaj. Genl.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Second Battle of Bull Run—known in the South as Second Manassas—was fought August 28–30, 1862. On its final day, General James Longstreet launched a massive assault against the Union left, driving Major General John Pope’s Army of Virginia from the battlefield. This telegram was received the following day as incomplete reports of the battle continued to circulate through the Union command.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDix, then commanding the Department of Virginia from Fortress Monroe, transmitted the message to Major General Erasmus D. Keyes, commander of the Army of the Potomac’s IV Corps. Its extraordinary brevity captures the uncertainty of Civil War command before complete reports of Pope’s defeat became available.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDix was a veteran of the War of 1812, former United States senator and secretary of the treasury. At the opening of the Civil War he became nationally famous for ordering that anyone attempting to lower the American flag be shot “on the spot.” He later served as United States minister to France and governor of New York.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eManuscript on an official printed United States Military Telegraph received-message form. As was customary with received telegrams, the message and Dix’s name were probably transcribed by a telegraph operator; it is therefore offered as a contemporary received telegram from Dix rather than a personally signed autograph.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOriginal folds, upper-edge wrinkling, light toning, pencil catalog annotations and a later blue identification stamp. The historic message remains bold and fully legible.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52741533663514,"sku":null,"price":695.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2566.jpg?v=1787678248"},{"product_id":"1838-governor-isaac-hill-signed-1838-new-hampshire-judicial-commission-joseph-doe-justice-of-the-peace","title":"1838 GOVERNOR ISAAC HILL SIGNED 1838 NEW HAMPSHIRE JUDICIAL COMMISSION — JOSEPH DOE, JUSTICE OF THE PEACE","description":"\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eOriginal State of New Hampshire judicial commission signed by \u003cstrong\u003eGovernor Isaac Hill\u003c\/strong\u003e, appointing prominent Newmarket citizen \u003cstrong\u003eJoseph Doe\u003c\/strong\u003e as a Justice of the Peace and of the Quorum for Strafford County.\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIssued at Concord on \u003cstrong\u003eDecember 20, 1838\u003c\/strong\u003e, the partly printed document declares that the state, “reposing especial Trust and Confidence” in Doe’s fidelity and ability, appointed him to exercise the powers and authority of a Justice of the Peace and of the Quorum for a term of five years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBoldly signed at lower right by:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Isaac Hill”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eand countersigned by \u003cstrong\u003eJosiah Stevens Jr., New Hampshire secretary of state\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commission retains its large original \u003cstrong\u003eNew Hampshire state seal\u003c\/strong\u003e, impressed beneath a serrated paper wafer. The reverse docket identifies the recipient as “Joseph Doe Esq., Newmarket” and notes that the commission would expire on December 20, 1843.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe lower portion records that Doe appeared in Strafford County on February 18, 1839, and formally subscribed the oath required of a Justice of the Peace and of the Quorum.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJoseph Doe (1776–1860)\u003c\/strong\u003e was a successful Newmarket-area farmer and substantial landowner who participated actively in town affairs, served in the New Hampshire legislature and held judicial office as a justice of the peace. His surviving papers are represented in the collection of the New Hampshire Historical Society.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDoe was the father of \u003cstrong\u003eCharles Cogswell Doe\u003c\/strong\u003e, who became one of New Hampshire’s most distinguished jurists and served as chief justice of the state Supreme Court.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIsaac Hill (1788–1851)\u003c\/strong\u003e was an influential Jacksonian newspaper editor and Democratic politician. Before becoming governor, he represented New Hampshire in the United States Senate from 1831 to 1836. He served as governor from 1836 until 1839.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn attractive signed state appointment connecting a prominent New Hampshire governor with the Doe family’s lengthy involvement in the state’s legal and political history.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDocument:\u003c\/strong\u003e Judicial commission\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRecipient:\u003c\/strong\u003e Joseph Doe of Newmarket\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eOffice:\u003c\/strong\u003e Justice of the Peace and of the Quorum\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCounty:\u003c\/strong\u003e Strafford County, New Hampshire\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDate:\u003c\/strong\u003e December 20, 1838\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSignatures:\u003c\/strong\u003e Governor Isaac Hill and Secretary of State Josiah Stevens Jr.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSeal:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original paper-covered embossed New Hampshire state seal\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Original folds with several short fold separations and small losses at intersections; edge wear and tearing, particularly along the left margin; scattered toning and minor stains. The principal text, signatures and state seal remain clear and presentable.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52742055133466,"sku":null,"price":495.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2565.jpg?v=1787692691"},{"product_id":"meshech-weare-1784-new-hampshire-colonel-s-commission-with-great-seal","title":"MESHECH WEARE—1784 NEW HAMPSHIRE COLONEL’S COMMISSION WITH GREAT SEAL","description":"\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eAn original early-statehood New Hampshire militia commission signed by \u003cstrong\u003eMeshech Weare\u003c\/strong\u003e, Revolutionary governor, chairman of the Committee of Safety and one of the most important political leaders in New Hampshire history.\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIssued at Exeter on \u003cstrong\u003eDecember 25, 1784\u003c\/strong\u003e, the document appoints Revolutionary-era officer \u003cstrong\u003eNathaniel Emerson of Chester\u003c\/strong\u003e colonel of the \u003cstrong\u003e17th Regiment of New Hampshire Militia\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe commission commands Emerson to lead, order and exercise the regiment, maintain its officers and soldiers in proper discipline and obey instructions received from the commander in chief. The 17th Regiment consisted of militia companies from Chester, Candia, Raymond and Allenstown.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eParticularly evocative is the commission’s declaration that it was issued in:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“the Ninth” year of “the Sovereignty and Independence of the United States of America.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe document is signed \u003cstrong\u003e“M. Weare”\u003c\/strong\u003e by Meshech Weare as president of New Hampshire and countersigned by \u003cstrong\u003eEbenezer Thompson\u003c\/strong\u003e, secretary of state. The large original embossed paper-and-wax \u003cstrong\u003eGreat Seal of New Hampshire\u003c\/strong\u003e, displaying the rising sun and ship motif, remains attached at the upper left.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA contemporary endorsement dated January 13, 1785, records that Colonel Emerson personally appeared in Rockingham County and took the required oaths of allegiance and office.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMeshech Weare (1713–1786)\u003c\/strong\u003e led New Hampshire throughout the Revolutionary War, serving as its chief executive, chairman of its Committee of Safety and chief justice. This concentration of civil, military and judicial responsibility earned him recognition as the “father of New Hampshire.” The present commission was issued during the closing weeks of his final term.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNathaniel Emerson (1741–1824)\u003c\/strong\u003e was a Chester resident and Revolutionary-era militia officer who had previously served as lieutenant colonel of the 17th Regiment. This commission elevated him to command of the entire regiment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 15½ × 12½ inches. Considerable overall browning, staining and foxing; intersecting folds with splitting and localized losses; irregular and chipped margins; losses at both lower corners. The reverse has extensive old tape reinforcement along the folds and margins. The original state seal remains substantially complete, and Meshech Weare’s signature is bold and readily legible. Offered with all faults clearly illustrated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA scarce and impressive post-Revolutionary military appointment bearing the signature of New Hampshire’s first chief executive, its original Great Seal and an unusually desirable colonel-level commission.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52752466968858,"sku":null,"price":595.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2638_bb3e279d-020f-40c3-b963-e50b7f953e28.jpg?v=1787919596"},{"product_id":"1863-three-civil-war-letters-to-navy-secretary-gideon-welles-naval-academy-appointments","title":"1863 THREE CIVIL WAR LETTERS TO NAVY SECRETARY GIDEON WELLES—NAVAL ACADEMY APPOINTMENTS","description":"\u003cp class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eA fascinating group of three original Civil War–dated letters addressed to \u003cstrong\u003eGideon Welles\u003c\/strong\u003e, President Abraham Lincoln’s secretary of the Navy, concerning congressional appointments to the United States Naval Academy.\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe letters were written during 1863, when the expanding Union Navy urgently required new officers and the Naval Academy had been temporarily relocated from Annapolis to Newport, Rhode Island.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe most historically significant letter was written from \u003cstrong\u003eFort Monroe, Virginia, on July 22, 1863\u003c\/strong\u003e, by \u003cstrong\u003eJoseph Eggleston Segar\u003c\/strong\u003e, one of Virginia’s most prominent wartime Unionists. Segar refused to follow his state into secession and represented Union-controlled Virginia in Congress.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSegar advises Secretary Welles that Virginia’s newly established congressional districts must be considered in selecting midshipmen for the Naval Academy. He asks for information concerning the appointment available to his district and directs Welles to the relevant apportionment provisions in an accompanying publication.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe reverse bears the revealing contemporary identification:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cblockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e“Hon. Jos. Segar—M.C. Virginia—Union man.”\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/blockquote\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe second letter, dated \u003cstrong\u003eMay 21, 1863\u003c\/strong\u003e, is written by newly elected Connecticut Congressman \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Henry Hubbard\u003c\/strong\u003e. He asks Welles to confirm whether Connecticut’s Fourth Congressional District has a vacancy at the Naval School so that he may submit a candidate. Hubbard became a strong congressional supporter of Lincoln and served from 1863 through 1867.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe third letter, written at \u003cstrong\u003ePrinceton on July 20, 1863\u003c\/strong\u003e, recommends \u003cstrong\u003eWilliam A. Johnson of Trenton, New Jersey\u003c\/strong\u003e, for admission to the Naval Academy. The writer describes Johnson as a young man of excellent health, character and education who earnestly wished to qualify himself for naval service.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTogether, these letters offer an uncommon view of the political appointment system through which Civil War–era midshipmen entered the Naval Academy. They also connect Unionist Virginia, Connecticut and New Jersey political figures directly with Lincoln’s Navy Department.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e Three manuscript letters, each approximately one page, with integral blank leaves or docketing where present. Expected folds, light toning, scattered stains and minor edge wear. Ink remains strong and legible. The letters are addressed to Gideon Welles but are not written or signed by him. Please examine the photographs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn appealing Civil War naval and political archive highlighted by Joseph Segar’s Fort Monroe letter and his contemporary identification as a \u003cstrong\u003e“Virginia Union man.”\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Signature Documents LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":52752469360922,"sku":null,"price":495.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/2221\/0931\/files\/IMG_2642.jpg?v=1787920293"}],"url":"https:\/\/www.thearchiveauthority.com\/collections\/military.oembed","provider":"Signature Documents LLC","version":"1.0","type":"link"}