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Lot 54: VT. Signed Rev. War Commission 1781

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:510.00 USD Estimated At:850.00 - 1,000.00 USD
Lot   54: VT. Signed Rev. War Commission 1781
<b>Autographs</b><hr><b>Rare Vermont Revolutionary War Militia Commission</b>

<b>THOMAS CHITTENDEN, First Governor of Vermont.</b>
Partly printed Document Signed, “Thos. Chittenden,” as governor, on a military commission, May 8, 1781, Vermont, 8” x 12,” Fine+. Completed in manuscript, this document elects Thomas Whipple a Lieutenant in the Militia of Vermont. Signed by Chittenden at the bottom and countersigned by Joseph Thay as State Secretary. Large paper seal at the upper left, general foxing, soiling, wear to the folds and a few small holes, silked on the reverse. In early 1777 Vermont declared itself an independent republic instead of joining the other 13 colonies which formed the first 13 states of the Union in July 1776. Vermont’s status as an independent republic continued until 1791, with Thomas Chittenden as its first governor. Vermont adopted the U.S. Constitution in January 1791, and on March 4 became the 14th state to enter the Union. A fascinating and rare document of a state whose status was unique in American history.