Wentworth Cheswell, Remarkable Black Revolutionary War Patriot, DS as Justice of the Peace

1p, measuring 8.25" x 8.25", Rockingham, New Hampshire, dated July 13, 1811. A legal document signed "Wentworth Cheswel" as Justice of the Peace of New Market, New Hampshire, addressed to the Constables of Rye. Cheswell orders them to attach the Goods or Estate of Joses Phillbreck of Rye to the value of $14, or to bring him to answer to George Sullivan for the debt. On verso is the sheriff's deposition and written out legal costs. The original invoice for Phillbreck is also attached. Both with flattened folds and edge chipping. Light uneven toning throughout. Bold and neat signature by Cheswell.

Wentworth Cheswell (1746-1817) was a relatively recently discovered African American Revolutionary War Hero who broke many stereotypes of the day. He was a schoolmaster, leader of his church, helped found the town library, was the first Black elected to office (Town Constable and Selectman), supported taking up arms against the British, was a Member of the Committee of Safety, enlisted in 1777 under Col. John Langdon participating in the Battle of Saratoga, and was elected in 1778 to New Hampshire's Constitutional Convention. Cheswell is also known as The Paul Revere of New Hampshire, as he made a similar all-night ride from Boston to warn the people of New Hampshire of the British Invasion. After the War, Cheswell was a successful storekeeper, as well as the Town Auditor, Coroner, Assessor, Town Moderator, and Justice of the Peace.

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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