Details:

Joshua Elder manuscript receipt signed, dated April 14, 1774, measuring approximately 7.5 x 3". The document acknowledges receipt of twelve pounds from Samuel Johnston "in full for my fees for surveying Three Tracts of Land on the Waters of Crooked on the North Side of said Creek," surveyed pursuant to a warrant dated April 14, 1774, in the names of Andrew Boggs, Francis Jones, and Lewis Bush. The receipt is signed by Joshua Elder.

On the verso, the document bears an additional receipt dated August 16, 1775, acknowledging receipt of six pounds from Mr. David Grier as partial payment of the within account. This endorsement is signed by Samuel Johnston, creating an attractive association between three individuals connected with early Virginia frontier settlement and Revolutionary-era public affairs.

The document records the surveying of frontier lands immediately preceding the American Revolution, preserving an important record of land development and settlement in colonial Virginia. The presence of the later endorsement referencing David Grier, who would go on to become Lieutenant Colonel David Grier and serve as a prominent merchant, military officer, and associate of George Washington during the Revolutionary War, further enhances the historical significance of the piece.

Very good condition overall with expected horizontal and vertical fold lines, moderate age toning, scattered staining, edge wear, and minor losses at the margins.

Joshua Elder (1734-1792) was a Pennsylvania surveyor, frontier settler, and militia officer who surveyed thousands of acres throughout the expanding colonial frontier during the mid-eighteenth century. His work played an important role in documenting land claims and facilitating settlement during the years leading up to the American Revolution.

David Grier (1741-1790) was an attorney from York County, PA, who served as major of a battalion of associators during the latter part of 1775. He became a captain in the 6th Pennsylvania Regiment in January 1776, major of that regiment in October 1776, and lieutenant colonel of the 7th Pennsylvania Regiment in February 1777. Grier received a superficial stab wound from a bayonet during the engagement at Paoli, PA, in September 1777. Though he eventually recovered, he decided to resign his commission in a dispute over rank in December 1777, mentioned in the here offered letter to George Washington.

Authentication:
Includes a full letter of authenticity from JG Autographs, Inc.

Premium:
A 25% Buyers Premium Will Be Added to All Winning Bids

Reference sku: 11615 1417457-1