Lot 4043
19th Century Copy of A French and Indian War Journal. "Fort Frederick on St. Johns River Written May 13 1759. Samll Man. Samuel Man's Book April 21, 1759. A Journal to St. John's. three Degrees Northard of Wrentham a cold climate." 34 pages on 11¾ x 9½ inch, laid paper with an 1887 watermark. Light toning; front cover lightly soiled, else fine. Man was from Wrentham, Massachusetts. He was hired April 2, 1759 by William Coney, received a bounty of 60 pounds, marched to Dorchester, then boarded a boat for Castle William. He sailed in Capt. Curtis' Company on The Charming Polly, in a fleet of 12 transports and a man of war (The King George).
Man gives an accounting of the company's activities throughout the year, until the next May 18th, when he arrived back home. He names the men who were shot, stabbed, scalped, or taken by the enemy (French and Indians), and describes scouting expeditions, guard duty, the weather, etc. On May 30, 1759, the men celebrated Election Day in Massachusetts Colony "By cutting of Great Cheeses, Dressing in Long Trousers, and several Rare fashions and uncommon Dresses…." News was sometimes received from Annapolis Royall; on August 1, he mentions that "a number of Troops have gone in an Expedition to Canada we all hope for success.…," and on Sept. 3, he notes "the Reduction and conquest of Ticonderoga which was agreeable." On Oct. 18, they celebrated "The Reduction of Canada" (the fall of Quebec, which was the turning point of the war). On Dec. 25, he writes that "some indians threatened some of Mr. Sanders family"; thereafter only 3 Indians at a time could enter the fort. On Jan 27, he says, "We still remain here and want to be relieved." The same day French prisoners of war sailed for Halifax. On April 4 a sloop "Ladened with Rangers…of Capt. Dank'es Company" arrived. Man finally arrived home on May 18, 1760. At the very end of the journal is a drawing of Fort Frederick, with 3 block houses, a hospital, and 3 areas marked "graves." A fascinating journal with a great deal of detail. From the Stuart Goldman estate.
Estimated Value $1,000 - 2,000.
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| Realized $288 |
