Rush, Benjamin & James Wilson. Rush (1746-1813) and Wilson (1742-98) Signers of the Declaration of Independence from Pennsylvania. Autograph Document Signed ("
Benjn Rush"), 1/3 page, 13½ x 8½ in., May 28, 1794. Written on the verso of a partly-printed Document Signed "
James Wilson," Philadelphia, April 19, 1794. Wilson acknowledges receipt from the Land Office of Pennsylvania of a tract of 1,000 acres of land "
within the last purchase made of the Indians east of the Allegany River and Conewango Creek," in consideration of five shillings specie paid him by Benjamin Rush of Philadelphia, "practitioner of physic." Below Wilson's signature appears a printed Document Signed by Edward Shippen (1728-1806), at the time Associate Justice of the Pennsylvania Supreme Court (he became Chief Justice in 1799). Shippen signs that Wilson's witness, Edward Fisher, appeared before him and swore that he had personally seen Wilson sign the document.
On the verso, Rush writes seven lines, acknowledging having received payment and adds, "I do hereby grant, and convey to Richard Stockton Esquire of Princeton New Jersey, all my right & title to the within described tract of land….In testimony whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this 28th day of May 1794." Below Rush's statement is a further affidavit, written and signed by Andrew Geyer, alderman, and dated Oct. 23, 1830, stating that John C. Otto had appeared before him and had sworn that he was present when Rush signed the document. Light toning, else fine.
An interesting document signed by two Signers and referring to the eponymous son of a third: Richard Stockton. Rush is rare. Wilson is scarce.
Estimated Value $3,000 - 5,000.
Purchased from Walter R. Benjamin Autographs, Inc. in 1986.
Signers of The Declaration of Independence
