Impressive manuscript DS on vellum, signed “B. Franklin” and “Benj. Franklin,” one page, 26 x 21.5, January 12, 1753. An indenture wherein “widdow” Hannah White of Germantown [Pennsylvania] transfers to Thomas Rose of Bristol a parcel of land “for the consideration of the sum of one hundred and twenty two pounds lawful money.” Franklin signs twice, within (“Benj. Franklin” ) and following (“B. Franklin” ) a statement of witness. In the year of signing, Franklin’s offices included Postmaster of Philadelphia, Deputy Postmaster of the British Colonies in America, and member of the Pennsylvania Assembly. 1753 also marked a high point in Franklin’s scientific pursuits; it was in this year that he founded the Academy of Sciences of Philadelphia and published (in his own Poor Richard’s Almanack) his pioneering article describing the lightning rod, an invention that evolved from his legendary kite-flying experiment of the previous year. Two seals, one wax and one wax and paper, remain intact near the right edge. Handsomely matted and framed with a nineteenth-century portrait engraving to an overall size of 43 x 32. In very good condition, with heavy folds (one touching the last name of “internal” signature; toning; separations at intersections, affecting a few words), and scattered soiling and spotting (including offsetting of text to blank lower margin). Both signatures are otherwise distinct and unaffected. As visually commanding a Franklin document as you’re ever likely to encounter! LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
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