Patriot leader (1729–1824) in Philadelphia during the American Revolution and the secretary of the Continental Congress (1774–1789) throughout its existence; Thomson was the only person to sign the Dunlap Broadside of the Declaration alongside John Hancock. Revolutionary War–dated manuscript DS, signed “Cha. Thomson Sec'y,” one page, 9.25 x 15.5, February 11, 1780. Thomson forwards an "Extract from the minutes" of Congress to General Benjamin Lincoln, then commander of Continental forces in the South. in part: "Resolved, that Congress highly applaud the unremitting exertions of the State of Georgia and the zeal and firmness, manifested by them under their difficulties and that the State of Georgia may be assured no endeavours will be wanting on the part of Congress to promote her interests—Resolved, that the quota of Continental troops of the State of Georgia be, the ensuing campaign One battalion of infantry and one regiment of horse…That Congress approve the plan adopted by the State of Georgia for reducing the four regiments of that State into one for officering the same…That the president inform the Gov'r of the State of Georgia that a general exchange of prisoners is now negotiating and due regard will undoubtedly be paid to Colo. Elbert…That notwithstanding the high sense Congress entertain of the merit of Colo. Elbert, Congress cannot at present promote him to the rank of Brigadier General in the continental army." In fine condition, with some light toning along the folds.
The "Colo. Elbert" in question is no doubt Samuel Elbert (1740–1788), who led Button Gwinnett's forces at the outset of the Revolution. He commanded the victorious American colonial forces in a naval battle near St. Simons Island, Georgia on April 19, 1778. He was wounded and captured at the Battle of Brier Creek the following year, and regained his freedom in a prisoner exchange for British Brigadier General James Inglis Hamilton. Elbert went on to command a brigade at Yorktown, and would be brevetted a brigadier general after the end of the war.
This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for
$35.00
*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.
