Spencer, Joseph (1714-89) American Revolutionary War officer; delegate to the Continental Congress. He led the 2nd Connecticut Regiment at the Siege of Boston and in 1776 was promoted to major general under William Heath in the Eastern Division. In 1777 he cancelled a planned attack on the British in Rhode Island. After being censured by Congress, he demanded a court of inquiry and was exonerated but resigned his commission on June 14, 1778. Manuscript Document Signed ("Jos Spencer M:gl"), 5 x 7¼ inches, Head Quarters, Providence, April 4, 1778. Ordering Benjamin Stelle, Assistant Deputy Paymaster General, to pay "Heza. Bissell Two hundred and Ninety six Dollars, for and on Account of his Wages, as Depy Adj Genl to Majr Genl Spencer Command, from the 16th Novr. 1777 to the 12th of April instant…." Two months and ten days later, General Spencer would resign his commission and leave the Army. Fine; inlaid to slightly larger paper.
Estimated Value $400 - 600,
1966,
Colonial and Revolutionary America