Lot 35
Morton, John (1724-77) Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Pennsylvania. Autograph Document Signed thrice, 3 pages, 13½ x 9 in., Ridley Township, Pennsylvania, April 6, 1764. A deed setting out the evaluation of appraisers John Morton and John Justis of 2¾ acres of land (marsh land on Hay Island in the Township of Darby) left by Conrad Nethermardt, father of Luke. Luke was required to have the property appraised, then to pay his pro rata share to his three sisters. This deed is between Luke and his wife Margaret and George Grantham, who is buying 141 perches of land from them. Morton signs once as Justice of the Peace, with a red wax seal, and twice as a witness. All signatures are on page three. Pages one and four have been silked, else fine.
On July 2, 1776, two members of the Pennsylvania delegaton, John Dickinson and Robert Morris, were absent on purpose to avoid the vote for independence, and two others (Thomas Willing and Charles Humphreys) voted against independence. Since each colony could cast only one vote, a consensus had to be reached. Morton voted with Benjamin Franklin and James Wilson for independence, thus putting Pennsylvania in the "yea" column. Morton is scarce.
Estimated Value $1,200 - 1,500.
Purchased from Walter R. Benjamin Autographs, Inc. in 1980.
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| Realized $856 |
