1824 York County Debtor’s Execution Notice, Signed by Renowned Pennsylvania Rifle Maker Jacob Ernst / SOLD

Description

1824 York County Debtor’s Execution Notice, Signed by Renowned Pennsylvania Rifle Maker Jacob Ernst

 

Exceptional 1824 legal execution notice issued in York County, Pennsylvania and personally signed by Jacob Ernst, one of the most respected and widely collected Pennsylvania rifle makers of the early 19th century. Ernst, known for his finely crafted flintlock rifles and distinctive regional styling, served as a Justice of the Peace in Paradise Township—making signed legal documents by him highly sought after.

 

The notice records a judgment obtained by John Dellow against Martin Smith, compelling the constable to levy Smith’s property—or, failing that, to take him into custody—until the debt and court costs were satisfied. The form is partially printed with extensive handwritten insertions in period ink, including Ernst’s bold signature at the bottom:

 

“Given under my hand and seal, at Paradise — Jacob Ernst.”

 

The reverse contains additional handwritten calculations, fee totals, and notes relating to the execution of the judgment—offering a rare glimpse into early 19th-century financial and legal procedures.

 

A superb piece of Pennsylvania legal and gunsmithing history, combining early American justice system ephemera with the autograph of one of the Commonwealth’s most famous rifle makers. Highly desirable for collectors of Kentucky rifles, Pennsylvania longrifle makers, York County history, and early Americana.

 

Inventory Number: DOC 402