Partly-printed DS, signed “Go: Washington,” one page, 12.75 x 8.25, June 14, 1790. Washington appoints “William Barton to be Surveyor of the Port of Providence in the State of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations to exercise and fulfill the Powers and Duties of that Office, according to the Laws of the United States.” In good to very good condition, with toning along heavy vertical folds, one fold through a single letter of signature (old reinforcement on reverse to two of the folds and to the lower left corner), scattered creases, foxing, toning and soiling, a few edge chips, and a repaired tear to lower right.
Accompanied by two other documents related to Barton. One of which, 28.5 x 12, entitled “Return of the Brigade of Militia in the County of Providence commanded by William Barton, Brigadier General,” describes an accounting of men, ammunition, and supplies, dated July 14, 1794; and a 12 x 7.5 document, dated May 12, 1794, promoting Barton to the rank of brigadier general, signed by governor Arthur Tenner. Both accompanying documents also rate good to very good.
The Providence-born Barton cut a piece of history for himself during the Revolution following his 1777 capture of British general Richard Prescott, then commander of Rhode Island. Barton’s elimination of Prescott, a tyrannical officer who persecuted armed and unarmed Rhode Islanders, endeared the native son to his people. In May 1790, following Rhode Island’s narrow ratification of the US Constitution by a vote of 34 to 32, Barton was chosen to notify President Washington. Perhaps it was a direct result of his role in that ratification that Barton was rewarded with this appointment. A rare piece of Americana, with an undeniably appealing, large type face “George Washington” dominating its top, presented to a prominent Rhode Island patriot. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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