Heading:
Author: Harrison, Benjamin, Signer from Virginia
Title: Document signed by Benjamin Harrison as Governor of Virginia, appointing five individuals as justices of the peace and commissioners for trials of slaves
Place Published: Richmond, VA
Publisher:
Date Published: May 10, 1782
Description:

Partially printed document filled out in ink, with embossed paper seal affixed. 27x17 cm (10½x6¾"), matted and framed with a portrait under plexiglass. Overall 44x48 cm (17¼x18¾").

Benjamin Harrison V (1726-1791) was an American planter and merchant, a Virginia delegate to the Continental Congress from 1774 to 1777, and a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Harrison later served as Virginia's fifth governor. His direct descendants include two U.S. Presidents, his son William Henry Harrison and great-grandson Benjamin Harrison. The present document, from his tenure as governor of Virginia, is of particular interest for its references to slavery. In addition to being appointed justices of the peace in Augusta County, the five individuals named in the document were made "Commissioners of Oyer and Terminer, for the trial of slaves in the said county... for the purpose of trying, condemning and executing, or otherwise punishing or acquiting any slave committing a capital crime within the said county..."

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Old folds with a short splet at central horizontal fold; frame with a little rubbing at the edges; very good.