Revolutionary War-dated ADS, signed “Benj'n Lincoln,” one page, 7.5 x 12.5, July 1, 1775. Document headed "Committee of Supplie, Chamber, Watertown," directed to "Mr. Elbridge Gerry," requesting gunpowder for the Massachusetts militia. In part: "You are desired by this Committee to repair immediately to the Country of Essex & procure Bills on England…to the Value of Two Thousand Pounds Sterling, you will dispatch with all possible speed the Brig Rockingham…to Bilboa or some other part of Europe you will deliver the cash & bills to Capt. Jonston Master of said Vessell or to such other person or persons that you shall appoint to proceed with him & direct that it be invested in Powder in Bilboa or elsewhere." At the conclusion, Lincoln adds a note dated July 2, 1775, in full: "Mr. Gerry: Sir, you are also desired if powder is to be had in any part of America to procure it in such way & manner as you shall think best & we will confirm what you shall do relative to this matter." Also signed at the conclusion by committee chairman David Cheever. In very good condition, with old tape repairs to the back of fold separations.
As a member of various important Revolutionary committees, Benjamin Lincoln was deeply involved in ensuring that supplies of all sorts—from blankets to gunpowder—reached the Continental Army as they lay siege to the British in Boston. On the date of this document—July 2, 1775—General George Washington rode into Cambridge, Massachusetts, to take command of the new American army. A remarkable document from an early and significant date in the American Revolution.
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