Signer of the Declaration of Independence from Rhode Island (1707–1785) and a delegate to the Continental Congress. Manuscript DS, signed “Fras. Hopkinson,” one page, 11.75 x 7.5, July 5, 1785. Hopkinson orders the sale of a boat named Hannah from the owner William Eve to “sell at public venue the said Sloop Hannah with her tackle, apparel, and furniture…and out of the monies arising from the sale you are to pay unto John Hutton ship carpenter thirteen pounds one shilling & two pence.” In very good condition, with a few spots affecting signature, scattered toning and ink marks, mostly to edges, and three vertical folds. Document also bears an impressed Pennsylvania seal and Hopkinson’s signature is quite large and prevalent.
Hopkinson affixed his signature to the document in his role as Judge of the Admiralty of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. William Eve commissioned a sloop, very likely named after his wife, Hannah; but he neglected to pay “John Hutton, Shipwright”, “Peter Brown, Blacksmith”, and several others for their work. Consequently, the Court ordered the sloop sold and the proceeds used to pay the debts. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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