Lot #149

Edward Rutledge Document Signed on Thomas Lynch

Description

Significant document connecting Edward Rutledge to South Carolina's rarest Signer—Thomas Lynch, Jr.

American politician from South Carolina who was the youngest signer of the Declaration of Independence (1749-1800). Partly-printed DS, one page, 12.75 x 8.25, December 12, 1786. Directive to the sheriffs of South Carolina to "Summon Robert Smith…executor of the last will & testament of Thomas Lynch the Younger, who was executor of the last will & testament of Thomas Lynch the elder, late of the said state Esqr. deceased…to answer to Francis Kinlock…in a plea of trespass." Endorsed on the reverse by Rutledge: "I appear for the Deft., Ed. Rutledge, March 20, 1787." Signed on the front by Henry Pendleton as justice of the Court of Common Pleas, and by Gibbs as the plaintiff's attorney. The white paper seal affixed to the upper left remains intact. In fine condition.

This is an especially interesting document as it relates to Thomas Lynch, Jr., whose autograph is considered to be the rarest of all Declaration signers. Lynch's father, here referred to as "Thomas Lynch the elder," had served in the Continental Congress from 1775 to 1776 but had to return home to South Carolina due to illness, and passed away from a stroke shortly thereafter. Thomas Lynch, Jr., was chosen to take his father's place in Congress, where he voted for and signed the Declaration of Independence. In 1779, Lynch, Jr. sailed to St. Eustatius in the West Indies, but his ship was lost at sea and never found.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts Featuring Major Figures of Science and Technology
• Dates: #665 - Ended May 10, 2023

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