Timothy Matlack and Joseph Reed

Revolutionary War–dated manuscript vellum DS,"In the name and by the authority of the freeman of the commonwealth of Pennsylvania his Excellency Joseph read Esquire president and the supreme executive Council to Joseph heart Esquire we reposting a special trust and confidence in your patriotism valor conduct infidelity do be these presents constitute and appoint you to a lieutenant signed “Jos. Reed, President” and “Attest, T. Matlack Secy,” one page, March 29th, 1780. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Signed below seal on upper left at the conclusion by Reed and on the bottom as secretary by Matlack. Seal affixed to upper left remains fully intact. In good condition, with intersecting folds (heavy folds and creases, a few small stains, and Reed’s signature a few shades light.

Timothy Matlack was a brewer and beer bottler who emerged as a popular and powerful leader in the American Revolutionary War, Secretary of Pennsylvania during the war, and a delegate to the Second Continental Congress in 1780. He became one of Pennsylvania's most provocative and influential political figures, but he was removed from office by his political enemies at the end of the war; however, he returned to power in the Jeffersonian era. Matlack was known for his excellent penmanship and was chosen to inscribe the original United States Declaration of Independence on vellum.

Joseph Reed was a lawyer, military officer and statesman of the American Revolutionary Era who lived the majority of his life in Pennsylvania. He served as a delegate to the Continental Congress and, while in Congress, signed the Articles of Confederation. He also served as President of Pennsylvania's Supreme Executive Council, a position analogous to the modern office of Governor.

With One of a Kind Collectibles LOA

Auction Notepad