1776 Revolutionary War Connecticut Payment Order Council of Safety, Signed by Benjamin Huntington

An attractive manuscript payment order dated Lebanon, Connecticut, September 2, 1776, signed “Benj. Huntington” as clerk pro tempore, acting by order of the Governor and Council of Safety.

Addressed to the Committee of the Pay Table, the document authorizes payment of £12, 19 shillings, and 5 pence to Colonel Elderkin for the balance owed for “sundry journeys & service done for this State.” The payee is almost certainly Jedediah Elderkin, a prominent Connecticut patriot and member of the Council of Safety.

Issued just two months after the Declaration of Independence, this document illustrates the practical work of financing Connecticut’s Revolutionary government. Benjamin Huntington later represented Connecticut in the Continental and Confederation Congresses and served in the first United States Congress.

The reverse bears a receipt dated Hartford, September 6, 1776, signed James Flint, together with contemporary docketing.

One sheet, written on both sides. Historical folds, light age toning, scattered minor spotting, and slight edge wear. The principal text and Huntington signature remain clear and bold. An appealing example of Revolutionary War administration from the pivotal year 1776.