Lot 2
Two 17th Century Massachusetts Military Documents. Two manuscript documents, one from May 24, 1664, no city, and one from April 8, 1682, Taunton (Mass.), both reflecting the state of alert in which the colony remained as a result of the Native American wars that were ongoing until the 1680s. The earlier document, 13 x 8 in., fixes fines for those who do not follow orders or who lack the proper arms and ammunition; small areas of paper loss at folds and in right margin; a 4¼ x 3 in. area of paper loss at botton center seems to only affect one line of text. Fair condition. The second document, 16 x 12 in., is headed "The Military Company of Taunton are here Divided into four Squadrons in order to their Bringing their Armes to meeting…according to Court order…." The names of the men in each of the four squadrons are listed in four columns. The Court order is set out below the columns: "The Court order is that every souldier bring his armes fixed to meeting when it is his turn with six charges of powder & shot…." Those who neglect or refuse to perform their duty will be fined and "if any stay from meeting because they will not bring their Armes to meeting such to be summoned to Court. Therefore fail not of your duty; & Expect noe further warning." Archivally backed; overall toning. Very good condition. Researching the names on this document could be quite a learning experience in early Massachusetts history. (2 items).
Estimated Value $1,500 - 2,000.
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| Realized $3,220 |
