Lot 235
Hancock, John (1737-93) First Signer of the Declaration of Independence; President of the Continental Congress (1775-77); Governor of Massachusetts (1780-85, 1787-93. Letter Signed "John Hancock Presidt" as President of the Continental Congress, 1 p, 12 x 8 in., Philadelphia, August 10, 1776. To Brigadier General (James) Clinton, announcing his promotion. Some overall soiling, staining in upper right quadrant, closely trimmed at right margin; text loss at left margin and center of paragraph professionally repaired and restored. Hancock's signature is large and beautiful, and is followed by a paraph. One vertical fold traverses the "H" in "Hancock.
The letter reads: "Sir: The Congress having yesterday been pleased to promote you to the Rank of Brigadier General in the Army of the American States, I do myself the Pleasure to inclose your Commission [not present] and wish you happy…."
James Clinton (1733-1812), brother of George Clinton and father of DeWitt Clinton, both of whom served as governors of New York, served in the provincial army during the French and Indian War and was appointed Colonel of the 3rd New York Regiment at the outbreak of the Revolutionary War in 1775. In March 1776, he took command of the 2nd New York Regiment and in August, was promoted to brigadier general in the Continental Army. This letter accompanied his commission. Clinton distinguished himself during the Saratoga campaign and the Sullivan Expedition. His brigade was with Washington's army at the siege of Yorktown.
Estimated Value $8,000 - 10,000.
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