Founding Legacy: Revolutionary War Veterans’ Documents & Early American Civic Records up for Auction

Lot 55: Arthur St. Clair – Revolutionary War Major General – 1771 Bedford County, PA Court Document

Before he became a Major General in the Revolutionary War and President of the Continental Congress, Arthur St. Clair served as a county court official in Pennsylvania. This 1771 legal summons, signed by St. Clair, is an early example of his judicial work, scarce and historically rich. The intact seal and crisp signature add to its appeal.

Lot 56: Revolutionary War Veteran George Keck Autographed 1812 Northampton County, PA Manuscript Document

Original 1812 manuscript resolution from Salisbury Township, Northampton County, Pennsylvania, capturing a pivotal moment as local leaders petitioned to divide the county for easier access to justice. Signed by Mayor Adam Kline as Chairman and Revolutionary War veteran George Keck as Secretary, the document voices the frustrations of Western Northampton residents who faced arduous travel to the county seat in Easton. Reflecting early 19th-century civic activism, the resolution was addressed to the Pennsylvania State Legislature, urging the creation of a more accessible judicial district. Both Kline and Keck exemplify dedicated public servants—Kline as a township leader advocating for his community’s needs, and Keck, who brought the same spirit of service from his Revolutionary War valor at Germantown and Brandywine into the young republic’s local governance.

Lot 57: John Tallmadge & Justus Sackett – Signed 1799 Land Deed – Warren, CT – Revolutionary War Ties

1799 land deed from Warren, Connecticut, transferring about twenty acres from Oliver Swan to John Tallmadge, is signed by Revolutionary War veteran Justus Sackett as Justice of the Peace and docketed by Tallmadge himself. Justus Sackett served as a captain in Connecticut’s militia during the Revolution, while John Tallmadge was the brother of Benjamin Tallmadge, Washington’s chief intelligence officer and leader of the famed Culper Spy Ring—John is even believed to be referenced as “code #249” in the spy ring’s cipher book. This fine-condition document offers a fascinating glimpse into the post-war civic roles of a family deeply connected to American Revolutionary history.

Lot 58: Major Nickolas Saeger – Revolutionary War Veteran – 1811 Militia Petition Addressed to Saeger

Original 1811 manuscript petition addressing Major Nickolas Saeger, a Revolutionary War veteran and Brigade Inspector of the Pennsylvania Militia, calling for his intervention in a contested election for Lieutenant Colonel of the 94th Regiment. Written by enrolled militiamen after a disputed vote held at George Rhoads’ home, the petition alleges irregularities and questions voter eligibility, formally requesting Saeger’s investigation and resolution under militia law. Dated June 1, 1811, and closed with the traditional phrase “And they will pray, &c.,” this well-preserved document offers a rare glimpse into early 19th-century grassroots military governance. Major Saeger’s continued public service highlights the vital link between Revolutionary War veterans and the shaping of Pennsylvania’s militia system during the young republic’s formative years.

 

Lot 59: Nathaniel Swift – Rev War Officer – 1811 CT Election Vote Certification – Signed Document

1811 Manuscript vote certification from Warren, Connecticut, signed by Revolutionary War veteran Nathaniel Swift as Presiding Officer, officially records votes for prominent Connecticut State Assistants like Henry Champion and Roger M. Sherman. Swift, who served bravely as an Ensign in the 1776 Canadian Campaign, brings a powerful connection between his wartime service and early American civic life. Preserved in fine condition, this document offers a vivid glimpse into the young republic’s political landscape and the enduring legacy of its Revolutionary leaders

Lot 60: Revolutionary War Veterans William Nichols & Laurence Erb Signed 1794 Pennsylvania Liquor License

This original 1794 Pennsylvania liquor license—signed by Revolutionary War veterans William Nichols and Laurence Erb—offers a fascinating glimpse into early American commerce and governance. Nichols, a seasoned officer who served in the 6th and 7th Pennsylvania Regiments, later became a respected attorney and court clerk, while Erb fought bravely at the Battle of New York before turning to distilling and stagecoach business. Together, their signatures authenticate this near-fine document that not only authorized the sale of spirits but also symbolizes the birth of federal revenue collection in post-Revolutionary Pennsylvania, bridging the nation’s military past with its economic future.

Lot 61: William Wister – Revolutionary War Currency Endorser – 1795 Autograph Letter Signed

Dated July 28, 1795, this autograph letter from William Wister to Peter Rhoads offers a candid snapshot of post-Revolutionary commerce in Pennsylvania. Wister, a Philadelphia businessman and Revolutionary War currency endorser, discusses challenges in collecting payments and the impact of weather on river transport, hoping recent rains will ease the movement of goods downstream. Preserved in very good condition, this brief but vivid letter connects us directly to the economic realities faced by an influential Revolutionary-era figure and his role in shaping Pennsylvania’s early financial landscape.

These early American documents offer a fascinating look at how Revolutionary War veterans continued to shape the nation long after the battles ended. From resolving local disputes and overseeing elections to managing trade and pushing for government reforms, these pieces reveal the everyday challenges and civic leadership that defined the post-war era. Signed by the very men who once fought for independence, each document adds a personal, boots-on-the-ground perspective to the story of how America was built—not just through war, but through steady hands guiding a young republic forward.

Ready to Bid on History & Culture Themed Collectibles?

Whether you're a collector of Revolutionary War history, early American governance, or 18th- and 19th-century ephemera, these original documents offer a rare chance to hold history signed by the very veterans and civic leaders who helped shape the nation’s foundation. From post-war petitions and land deeds to militia disputes and commercial correspondence, each piece reflects the lasting influence of those who didn’t just fight for independence—they helped build what came next.

HISTORY & CULTURE AUCTION