Quaker William Mead DS Assigning His Rights & Interests Near End of Life

Document signed "WMead", assigning his Right, Interest, etc. to "Thomas Sclater Esqr Exectr of Mr. Josiah Bacon…" On verso is a partially printed clipped document which is an order for repayment of a December 1705 loan for Mead. 1p, measuring 7.25" x 3.5", London, dated August 16, 1706. The document has edge toning and soiling. Slightly uneven edges. Boldly signed by Mead. From a recently discovered collection that has not seen the light of day for over 70 years!

William Mead (1628–1713) was a London merchant and prominent early Quaker. He became a wealthy linen draper in London and was a member of the Company of Merchant Taylors, before joining the Quakers in 1670. On August 14, 1670, he attended a crowded meeting in Gracechurch Street, at which William Penn was the preacher. The congregation was broken up by law officers for preaching to an unlawful assembly, and both men were caught, arrested, and committed to Newgate Gaol. The trial of Penn and Mead, at which they defended the right of free worship, began on September 1st, and although both were found not guilty, both the jury and prisoners were committed back to Newgate. It is believed that Penn's father, Sir William Penn, was finally able to secure their release by paying several fines. Mead and Penn later published a detailed account of their trial, entitled "The People's Ancient and Just Liberties asserted." Mead later lived at Highgate and entertained George Fox, with whom he was connected through marriage. He went on to hold a leading position among the Quakers, and several times waited on the king with George Whitehead and others.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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