He was appointed to the Committee of Correspondence, elected to the Provincial Legislature, and sent along to the Continental Congress in 1775. Hewes was known as a tireless worker in committee and the leading expert on maritime concerns. In 1776 he signed the Declaration of Independence and placed his ships at the service of the Continental Armed Forces. He served the Congress as the Secretary of the Naval Affairs Committee until 1779. DS, one page, 7.75 x 12.5, June 26, 1765. Legal document concerning the case of Thomas Jones and Azariah Vaun regarding an attachment of five pounds between the two parties. Boldly signed at the bottom in black ink “Joseph Hewes.” Scattered paper loss along storage folds, light toning and foxing and fragile folds, otherwise very good condition. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
