(AMERICAN REVOLUTION 1778) Oath of allegiance signed at Val

Sale 2391 - Lot 42

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(AMERICAN REVOLUTION--1778.) Oath of allegiance signed at Valley Forge. Partly-printed Document Signed by Captain Paul Brigham of the 8th Connecticut, and by Brigadier General James Mitchell Varnum as witness; 4 1/2 x 6 3/4 inches, folds, minimal wear. (MRS) Valley Forge, PA, 13 May 1778

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The oath-taker Paul Brigham (1746-1824) later served as the second governor of Vermont. The oaths were required of officers per a 3 February act of the Continental Congress; you would think surviving through the winter at Valley Forge would be evidence enough of loyalty. The oath reads "I Paul Brigham Captain do acknowledge the United States of America, to be Free, Independent and Sovereign States, and declare that the people thereof owe no allegiance or obedience to George the Third, King of Great-Britain; and I renounce, refuse and abjure any allegiance or obedience to him; and I do Swear that I will to the utmost of my power, support, maintain and defend the said United States . . . and will serve the said United States in the office of Captain which I now hold, with fidelity, according to the best of my skill and understanding." See Evans 15183, which credits the printing of the form to John Dunlap of Philadelphia and cites only 4 copies in libraries.