Rare and important Revolutionary War-dated partly-printed vellum DS, one page, 11.5 x 6.5, June 1, 1779. As president of the Continental Congress, Jay appoints Bartholomew Von Heer as "Captain of a corps of Marechaussee Light Dragoons in the Army of the United States." Signed at the conclusion in ink by John Jay. The white paper seal affixed to the left side remains intact. In very good to fine condition, with staining, toning, and the signature several shades light but fully legible.
Documents signed by John Jay in his capacity as president of the Continental Congress are extremely scarce: he served in the role for just 9 months and 18 days. With this significant appointment, he made Bartholomew Von Heer, a German-speaking officer who had immigrated to Pennsylvania, the commander of the newly founded Marechaussee, or military police, which was tasked with the enforcement of order within the Continental Army. The mission of the Marechaussee would soon grow into that of an auxiliary force, as Gen. Washington asked them to conduct reconnaissance missions, serve as dispatch couriers, and in emergencies, serve as a cavalry for the main army. George Washington's relationship with Bartholomew Von Heer, and the role of the Marchaussee in general, is discussed in Bob Ruppert's article 'Bartholomew Von Heer and the Marechaussee Corps,' published in the Journal of the American Revolution in 2014.
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