He was appointed to the Committee of Correspondence, elected to the Provincial Legislature, and sent along to the Continental Congress in 1775. Hewes was known as a tireless worker in committee and the leading expert on maritime concerns. In 1776 he signed the Declaration of Independence and placed his ships at the service of the Continental Armed Forces. He served the Congress as the Secretary of the Naval Affairs Committee until 1779. DS, one page, 7.5 x 12, North Carolina, Chowan County, February 26, 1774. In part: “…One of His Majesties Justices assigned to keep the peace within the County aforesaid by Captain John Smith that Thomas Blount felon stole from on board the sloop of the Complainant about three fathom of rope two inches and one half of one inch in thickness contrary to the peace of our Lord the King…Therefore in his Majesties name to command and require you to bring the body of the said Thomas Blount before me then to be dealt with according to Law and for so doing this shall be your sufficient warrant and authority.” Dark, legible text and signature. In fine condition, with expected toning, minor mirroring of ink from premature folding, minor edge wear. COA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
