1789 Connecticut Comptroller’s Office Treasury Note Signed by Secretary of State Jed Huntington

Description

1789 Connecticut Comptroller’s Office Treasury Note Signed by Secretary of State Jed Huntington

 

An original 18th-century Connecticut financial document dated May 9, 1789, issued from the Comptroller’s Office in Hartford. This historic piece directs payment of sixteen pounds, sixteen shillings to Richard Butler from taxes appropriated for the payment of the Civil List, signed by key state officials including Jeb Huntington (Treasurer) and the Comptroller. Printed by Hudson and Goodwin with ornate border design and handwritten signatures, this early American fiscal record reflects the post-Revolutionary War economic administration of Connecticut.

A rare survivor from the early years of the United States government, offering collectors and historians a tangible connection to the financial workings of the new republic.

Transcription:

No. 420

STATE OF CONNECTICUT

Comptroller’s Office, May 9th, 1789

Sir,

Pay Mr. Richard Butler Sixteen Pounds, Sixteen Shillings Lawful Money

out of the Taxes Appropriated for Payment of the Civil List, and charge the State.

Jed Huntington

Esqr. Treasurer

(Signed)

Oliver Wolcott Jr. Compt.

Printed at bottom:

Hartford: Printed by Hudson and Goodwin.

 

This is a financial pay order issued by the State of Connecticut on May 9, 1789, during the early years of the United States under the Constitution. It authorizes the payment of £13 and 16 shillings to Mr. Richard Butler, likely for services rendered or a salary as part of the Civil List — a term used historically to refer to government officials and civil servants paid by the state.

 

The document is signed by Jedediah Huntington, who was the Treasurer of Connecticut at the time, and Oliver Wolcott Jr., who served as Comptroller before becoming the second U.S. Secretary of the Treasury (following Alexander Hamilton).  It was printed by Hudson and Goodwin, a notable early American printing firm based in Hartford, Connecticut. This type of document is a precursor to modern-day checks or government-issued payment orders, and it’s a fascinating piece of post-Revolutionary War American history reflecting how state governments managed financial obligations.

Comes housed in 8 x 12 riker display case with blue velvet and descriptive card.

 

Inventory Number: REV 058