2005-11
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 10/31/2005
Original, neatly penned circa 1755 petition to their Jailer for leniency by 28 criminals, sentenced for the most petty of crimes. 7½ x 12 addressed: “TO PETER THOMPSON, SHERIFFE OF THE COUNTY OF SURRY…The petition of the prisoners confined for Debt in the Common Goal…Most humbly [bear witness]…that we are exceedingly oppressed for want of room and air, to the prejudice of even [our] lives, being generally confined to a small ward [for 16 nights] and through sickness or otherwise are obliged to ease nature in the ward [i.e. toilet functions !] during the above times as necessity prevails…such a stagnation of air produces distemper, even to death in that there are no separate wards for the removal of such prisoners…we humbly implore you, through humanity, to render such relief [in the cell, etc.].” Reverse of the sheet bears the original individual signatures of 27 men and 1 woman confined in that indescribably horrible confinement. Typical 18’th century writing and paper . Completely authentic. It has been identified as circa 1755 by its former owner, a British collector of crime material. Guaranteed authentic. Pages 3 and 4 blank. Typical aging.
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