Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Connecticut (1726-1797) who also signed the Articles of Confederation and served as a major general in the Connecticut Militia during the Revolutionary War. Scarce hand-addressed and free-franked envelope, 5.5 x 3, addressed in Wolcott’s own hand to his wife, “Mrs. Laura Wolcott, Litchfield, Connecticut,” and franked in the lower left, “Franked, O. Wolcott.” Reverse bears red wax seal remnants. In very good condition, with creasing, soiling, and small edge tears. Although free franks are normally reserved for presidents and first ladies, on November 8, 1775, the Journals of the Continental Congress reported that ‘all letters to and from the delegates of the United Colonies, during the sessions of Congress, pass, and be carried free of postage.’ Given that Wolcott represented Connecticut in the Continental Congress from 1776-1778 and 1780-1783, he was allowed to mail this envelope post free; his addition of “Franked” remains quite uncommon in contrast to the customary ‘Free’ mark.
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