Description:

Brearley David

David Brearley Signed Document, Rare NJ Constitution Signer

 

Paper half-sheet inscribed in a secretarial hand and signed by future Constitution signer David Brearley (1745-1790) as "Davd Brearley Jun Atof P Def" at top right. Docketed by clerk verso. The watermarked paper is hinged along the left side to a larger paper sheet measuring 9.25" x 8". Recorded at the New Jersey Supreme Court during the May Term of 1775. Brearley's signature is elegant and bold, the document in very good to near fine condition, with expected paper folds and light overall toning. From the Collection of Charles Forbes. Accompanied by Forbes' original typewritten filing folder pencil dated July 12, 1951, a photocopy of Forbes' bookplate, and a torn-out magazine page possibly inscribed in his hand.

 

David Brearley was just a defense attorney when he signed this document in the spring of 1775, but he would rise to the highest judicial post in the state 15 years later. Brearley represented client Hezekiah Stiles in a suit against William Richards.

 

"New Jersey Supreme Court

 

Hezekiah Stiles

Ads                                   In case

William Richards,

 

                                         I Plead payment

                                         Davd Brearley Jun Atof P Def

 

Middlesex fr. The aforesaid Hezekiah Stiles puts in his plan David Brearley Jun. his Attorney against at the suit of the said William Richards, in the plea aforesaid."

 

David Brearley studied at New Jersey College (Princeton)and became a lawyer in central New Jersey around 1767. He was a militia officer before the Revolutionary War, and served in the New Jersey line of the Continental Army between 1776-1779, participating in the battles of Brandywine, Germantown, and Monmouth. Between 1779-1789, Brearley served as New Jersey Supreme Court Chief Justice. He signed the Constitution as a New Jersey delegate in 1787, and chaired the Committee on Postponed Parts. This committee agreed to shorten the presidential term, enhance executive powers, confirm the Electoral College procedure, and create the office of the Vice President. Shortly before his death, Brearley was appointed the first district judge of New Jersey by President Washington.

 

Ex-Charles Forbes Collection. Forbes purchased this piece in 1949, making it 60 years since it has appeared on the market.

 

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