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An original manuscript Revolutionary War military pay order signed shortly after the close of the American Revolution.
The document directs the paymaster of Colonel Elisha Sheldon's Connecticut Regiment of Horse to pay James Reynolds the balance due Daniel Craigg for his military service.
The manuscript reads in part:
"Please to pay unto James Reynolds the balance due me for my services in the Connecticut Regiment of Horse commanded by Col. Sheldon..."
The order is dated May 12, 1783 and certified before Griffith Browne, Justice of the Peace for Litchfield.
The reverse contains multiple contemporary endorsements documenting assignment and payment of the claim, including references to payment for pay, clothing, and gratuity covering military service during 1780–1783.
Historical Importance
Colonel Elisha Sheldon's Regiment of Light Dragoons, commonly known as Sheldon's Horse, was among the Continental Army's premier cavalry units, serving under General George Washington in reconnaissance, escort, and intelligence operations throughout the Revolutionary War. Surviving financial documents directly naming the regiment are scarce and highly eighteenth-century manuscript with expected folds and light handling wear. Ink remains dark and highly legible, with no significant paper loss. A particularly attractive and well-preserved example.
