Major general in the Revolutionary War (1727-1800) who was second in command to George Washington, and, later, congressman from Massachusetts. Scarce ADS, one page, 6.5 x 8.5, January 13, 1766. Handwritten legal document by Ward as a justice of the peace, in part: "To the Sheriff or marshal of ye County of Worcester…or to ye Constables of ye town of Shrewsbury—Greeting. For as much as Elizabeth Johnson of Shrewsbury…hath this day made Information & complaint upon oath before me Artemas Ward Esq'e one of his Majesty's Justices of the peace for sd county that yesterday one bushel of Rye…was feloniously stolen taken & carried away…And that she has just cause to suspect & doth suspect that Icabod Bozworth of Shrewsbury…did steal take & carry away ye same. These are therefore to command you forthwith to apprehend him ye sd Icabod Bozworth & to bring him before me to answer unto ye sd Information & complaint." On the reverse is a note by a deputy sheriff, stating that Bozworth was apprehended, and the case was settled without trial. In very good condition, with overall staining, not affecting readability. During this period, Ward was a vocal opponent against Parliament's increasing oppression of the New England colonies, which soon cost him his military commission. With rebellious sentiment growing in the next decade, the 3rd Regiment resigned en masse from British service on October 3, 1774, marched to Shrewsbury, and informed Ward that they had elected him as their leader. A fantastic, rare autograph from one of the most significant figures of the Revolution.
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