Description: 1785 Historical Virginia Bond Document - Thomas Turner of Ravenswood & Francis Wilson, Witnessed by Colonel William Payne (1751–1813) This is an original and historically significant 1785 bond document from Westmoreland County, Virginia. The document details a financial agreement in which Thomas Turner, the owner of the Ravenswood estate, pledges to pay Francis Wilson a substantial sum of 21,882 pounds of tobacco. This document is particularly noteworthy as it was witnessed by Colonel William Payne (1751–1813), a prominent military officer and community leader in Virginia, known for his service during the American Revolutionary War.Transcription of the Document: Front of the Document: Know all Men by these Presents, That I Thomas Turner of County of Westmoreland am held and firmly bound unto Francis Wilson of Esq. in the just and full sum of Twenty One Thousand Eight Hundred and Eighty Two Pounds of Tobacco to be paid unto the said Francis Wilson his certain Attorney his Heirs, Executors, Administrators, or Assigns; to which Payment, well and truly to be made, I bind myself my Heirs, Executors, and Administrators, firmly by these Presents. Sealed with my Seal, and dated this 11th Day of March Anno Dom. One Thousand Seven Hundred and 85 The Condition of the above Obligation is such, That if the above bound Thomas Turner do, and shall well and truly pay, or cause to be paid unto the said Francis Wilson his certain Attorney, his Executors, Administrators, or Assigns, the just Quantity of Twenty One Thousand Eight Hundred and Eighty Two Pounds of Tobacco then the above Obligation to be void, or else to remain in full Force and Virtue. Sealed and Delivered in the Presence of William Payne T. Turner Back of the Document: Received the within in full of all demands as Witness my hand this 9th day March 1787 Francis Wilson Jones Court 1791 [Illegible] by the death of Turner Thomas Turner died 1789 [illegible] died of [illegible] by [illegible]Historical Context and Significance: Thomas Turner of Ravenswood (d. 1789): Thomas Turner was a prominent member of the Virginia gentry and the owner of the Ravenswood estate in Westmoreland County. Ravenswood was a significant plantation, central to the economic and social life of the region. Turner’s management of the estate and involvement in large financial transactions, such as this one, highlight his importance in the local economy. Colonel William Payne (1751–1813): The document was witnessed by Colonel William Payne, a notable figure in Virginia history. Payne served as a Colonel during the American Revolutionary War and later became a respected civic leader. He was the son of the William Payne known for his famous altercation with George Washington. His involvement in this document underscores its historical significance. Francis Wilson: Francis Wilson, the obligee of this bond, was likely a merchant or landowner with interests in the tobacco trade. The large quantity of tobacco involved in this transaction suggests that Wilson was engaged in significant economic activities, possibly involving the sale, trade, or export of tobacco, which was Virginia’s primary cash crop during this period.Economic Value of the Tobacco:21,882 Pounds of Tobacco: This quantity of tobacco would have been equivalent to approximately 18-19 hogsheads, representing a substantial economic value at the time. Using historical prices, this amount of tobacco could have been worth between $437.64 and $1,094.10 in 1785. Adjusted for inflation, this would be roughly equivalent to $37,000 to $93,500 in today’s money, underscoring the significant financial weight of this transaction.Condition:The document is in good condition considering its age, with legible text and signatures. There are typical signs of wear, including creases, slight discoloration, and minor tears, all of which are consistent with a document of this period and add to its authenticity and historical value.Collector’s Value: This document is a rare and valuable artifact, offering a direct link to the economic and social life of Virginia in the late 18th century. The connection to the Ravenswood estate, the involvement of prominent figures like Thomas Turner and Colonel William Payne, and the substantial tobacco transaction all contribute to its significance. This item would be an exceptional addition to any collection focused on early American history, the Revolutionary War era, or Virginia’s plantation economy. Shipping & Handling: This document will be carefully packaged to ensure its preservation during transit. Additional photos are available upon request. Don’t miss this opportunity to own a unique piece of American history!
Price: 1200 USD
Location: Telford, Pennsylvania
End Time: 2024-12-11T19:09:28.000Z
Shipping Cost: 0 USD
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All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
Item must be returned within: 30 Days
Refund will be given as: Money back or replacement (buyer's choice)
