Wharton (1735–1778) served as the first president of Pennsylvania; Matlack (1730–1829) was a prominent statesman, best known as the scribe of the Declaration of Independence. Partly-printed DS, signed “Tho. Wharton, Pres” and “T. Matlack, Sec’y,” one page, 11.75 x 9, May 17, 1777. Wharton appoints Philip Rupert “to be first Lieutenant of a Company of foot in the fourth Battalion of Militia.” Matted and framed to an overall size of 18.75 x 15.75. Intersecting folds, a few vertical folds passing through single letters of the signatures, uniform shade of toning, a significant tear to the upper left, scattered creases, and moderate foxing to the bottom portion of the document, otherwise very good condition. RR Auction COA.
