Thomas Danforth, Salem Witch Trials, 1671 Court DS, “Fornication” & Child Support

DANFORTH, THOMAS. Manuscript Document Signed Twice, “Thomas Danforth”, 1p, 6.875" x 6.375", "Watertowne", October 9, 1671. Endorsed on front and verso by John Harris, as Constable. Flattened folds, uneven edges, a few tiny pinholes, dampstaining, foxing, else near Very Good.

The first part of the document, “a true copie of the Courts order”, in part with period spelling retained, “Thomas Hastings Junr. being accused by Susanna Woodward of comitting fornication with her and of being the father of her Bastard child, evidence not appearing legally to convict him of the crime, yet by Law & custome of ye English nation in such cases he being legally reputed the father of said child, Hee is ordered by this Court to pay the charges that shall necessarily be expended for ye bring up of ye Same.”

Following are Danforth's instructions to the Constable of Watertown, in part, “In his Majies. name you are required forthwith to acquaint your select men with the order of the Court as above expressed, and accordingly take order for the provision of the above named Infant without further delay or neglect…”

Thomas Danforth (1623-1699) was a politician, magistrate, and landowner in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. In 1650, he was appointed treasurer of Harvard College, a position he held until becoming the steward in 1669. He had a long career in public service, holding positions in the Massachusetts legislature as Deputy Governor and as President of the Province of Maine. For twenty years, Danforth was a member of the Court of Assistants (comparable to present-day state senators), and it was during this period that this document was signed.

Danforth was a leading figure in the colony at the time of the Salem Witch Trials. As Deputy Governor, he took part in questioning the accused witches but did not sit on the Court. On the screen, he has been presented as a harsh and domineering governor; yet, in reality, Danforth is recorded as being critical of the conduct of the trials, and played a role in bringing them to an end.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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