Partly-printed DS, signed “B. Franklin, Presid't,” one page, 14.5 x 12, February 28, 1786. As president of the Supreme Executive Council of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, Benjamin Franklin assigns “Alexander Murray Esquire of the County of Cumberland,” reposing special trust and confidence in his patriotism, prudence, integrity, and abilities, as “one of the Justices of the county court of Common Pleas in and for the county of Cumberland...to have and hold said power and authority for seven years.” Signed in the left border by Franklin underneath the large white seal and countersigned at the bottom by John Armstrong as secretary. Matted and framed to an overall size of 23 x 20.25. In very good condition, with toning along the trimmed edges, apparent overall backing, some tiny holes (one touching Franklin's paraph), and staining to the slightly trimmed ornate seal.
The appointee here is likely Commodore Alexander Murray, Revolutionary War naval captain and later hero of the first Barbary War. Between the Revolutionary War and the quasi-war with France in 1794, Murray returned to private life in Pennsylvania, which included serving as a local Justice. The Courts of Common Pleas were established by the Pennsylvania Constitution of 1776; they still function today as state circuit courts.
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