1799 Barrington NH Promissory Note – Rev War Lt Jonathan Perkins – Signed For Sale

Original handwritten early American promissory note, dated November 16, 1799, executed in Barrington, New Hampshire.

This document records a promise by Jonathan Perkins to pay nine shillings lawful money to George Fessenden, or his order, with payment to be made at John Cales by the first day of March following, with interest if unpaid. Notes of this type reflect the informal but well-established local credit systems used throughout New England in the late 18th century.

The reverse bears a settlement notation dated September 16, 1800, stating that twenty-three shillings were received in cash, documenting the completion of the obligation and providing a full financial lifecycle.

The signer, Jonathan Perkins (1748–1824), is very likely the same Jonathan Perkins of Epping and later Gilmanton, New Hampshire, a documented Revolutionary War officer who served from 1775–1783, fought at Bunker Hill, Saratoga, and Monmouth, endured captivity after the Quebec campaign, and later became an original member of the Society of the Cincinnati of New Hampshire. By 1799, he was a civilian, husband, and father engaged in everyday economic life in post-Revolutionary New England.

This note offers a rare glimpse into the postwar civilian finances of a Continental Army officer, bridging Revolutionary service and early American daily life.

Barrington the November the 16th day 1799

For Value received I promise to pay unto
George Fessenden
or his order nine shillings lawful money

To be paid at John Cales by the first day of March next
and if not paid then interest

Jonathan Perkins

Reverse:
Sept 16 – 1800
Received twenty three shillings
in cash of the within note

• Original late-18th-century rag paper

• Fold lines from circulation

• Minor edge loss at lower margin, not affecting main text

• Ink remains legible throughout

• No restoration observed

Condition consistent with genuine working financial documents of the period.

• Date: 1799 (settled 1800)

• Place: Barrington, New Hampshire

• Type: Handwritten promissory note

• Signer: Jonathan Perkins

• Era: Early Federal America / Post-Revolutionary War