1787 JOHN HANCOCK APPOINTS A LIEUTENANT JOHN HANCOCK (1737-1793), Member of the Continental Congress (1775-1778), served as President of the Congress from May 24, 1775 to October 1777 and was the first Signer of the Declaration of Independence. From 1780-1785 and 1787 to his death in 1793, Hancock was Governor of Massachusetts.

Partly Printed DS: "John Hancock" as Governor of Massachusetts, 1p, 14½ x 13". Boston, December 24, 1787. Countersigned by John Avery. In large bold letters atop: JOHN HANCOCK; on the side the man with the most famous autograph ever signs: "John Hancock" with his trademark paraph. Impressed State seal affixed to left.

Appointment of "Antipas Brigham, Gentleman, Lieutenant of the first company in the Second regiment in the Second Brigade of the Seventh Division of the Militia of this Commonwealth Comprehending the County of Worcester…"

In print it reads further: "…You are therefore carefully and diligently to discharge the duty of Lieutenant, in leading, ordering and exercising said company in arms, both inferior officers and soldiers, and keep them in good order and discipline; and they are hereby commanded to obey you as their lieutenant, and yourself to observe and follow such orders and instructions as you shall, from Time to Time, receive from me or your Superior Officers…By his Excellency’s Command, John Avery Secy."