Express Rider Seeks Reimbursement for Ride for Connecticut Militia

Like Paul Revere and William Dawes, who rode from Boston to warn the minutemen of Lexington and Concord of the approach of British soldiers in April 1775, express riders were employed throughout the Revolutionary War. Both civilian and military leaders employed them to deliver important messages or summon others. Isaac Gleason submitted this bill for payment for express riding services for Brigadier General Selah Heart. He detailed three trips by horse in April and June 1782.

[REVOLUTIONARY WAR.] Selah Heart, Manuscript Document Signed, Statement of Express Services of Isaac Gleason, June 8, 1782, Farmington, Connecticut. 1 p., 7.75" x 12.75". Expected folds; minor stains not affecting text; irregular edges.

Excerpt
"B. General Selah Heart to Isaac Gleason Dr
"for Riding Express to Simsbury Time ½ Day
"Horse hire – 9 Miles, Expences
"Farmington 8th June 1782
"the above Serviss was don by order pr me
"Selah Heart Brigd General"

Selah Heart/Hart (1732-1806) was born into a wealthy and prominent Connecticut family, and he married Mary Cole (1732-1763) in 1754, with whom he had one child. He joined the militia as an ensign in 1762, then rose to the rank of captain by 1764. After his first wife died, he married Ruth Cole (1742-1844) in 1763, but they did not have any children. In 1776, he was appointed colonel of the 15th regiment of Connecticut militia. Captured by the British in August 1776, he was later exchanged. In May 1779, he was appointed brigadier general of the 6th brigade of Connecticut militia and served in that role until January 1784. After the war, he served as a delegate to the Connecticut ratifying convention for the U.S. Constitution in 1788.

Isaac Gleason (1737-1812) was born in Simsbury, Connecticut. He married Mary Smith (1740-1808) in 1759, and they had at least five children. Gleason was a merchant in Farmington, Connecticut.

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