Extraordinary ADS signed "Washington, SCC" one page, 6.5 x 7.5, November 6, 1749. A handwritten land survey drafted for James Scott and undertaken by Washington with the assistance of John Lonem and Edward Corder (chainmen) and James Scott (markman). In part: “Pursuant to a Warrant from the Proprieter’s Office to the directed I have Surveyed for James Scott three hundred and Eighty Six Acres and a Quarter of Waste and Ungranted Land Situate in Augusta County and on the Lost River." In very good to fine condition, with trimmed edges and possible one-time separation along its central vertical fold; the document has been permanently affixed to a same-size piece of cardstock.
In July 1749, at the age of 17, Washington was appointed official surveyor for the newly created Culpeper County in northern Virginia, a relatively well-paid and prestigious position aided by his close relationship with the Fairfax family. He continued to work as a surveyor until November 1752, when he was appointed adjutant in the Virginia colonial militia. Research indicates that during his time as surveyor, Washington conducted 199 land surveys, of which fewer than 75 are known extant. After completing his first survey on July 22, Washington ran at least 15 surveys along the Lost River in the early stages of November, with this particular example representing just the ninth of his young career. An astounding document from the future commander-in-chief—and the earliest example of Washington handwriting that we have ever encountered.
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