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A militia muster, a shortage of ready cash, and a New Hampshire town official asking a friend to send whatever money he can spare.
This original manuscript letter, dated October 8, 1818, was written and signed by John Dickey of Londonderry, New Hampshire, to Thomas Griffin. Dickey's request is both urgent and wonderfully unceremonious:
"Please to send me some money what you can anywise spare as we are in great want of some money..."
He explains that money has already been borrowed for soldiers attending the muster.
Dickey was no ordinary correspondent. He was serving as one of Londonderry's three selectmen in 1818, alongside William Choate and William Anderson Jr., as documented in Edward L. Parker's History of Londonderry (1851).
In the early nineteenth century, militia musters were a regular feature of New England civic life. These assemblies brought local men together for inspection, training, and military organization, while town officials were responsible for supporting the militia, including various provisions and expenses.
The reverse completes the story. A manuscript receipt dated October 13, 1818, just five days after the original letter, acknowledges twenty dollars received for John Dickey and includes the name James N. Dickey. Additional docketing records the date, amount, and number 98.
Together, the letter and receipt preserve both an urgent request for funds and a subsequent record of payment.
An engaging piece of early American correspondence connecting local government, militia organization, and the everyday financial realities of the young republic. Whatever the ceremonial importance of muster day, somebody still had to find the money.
Details
- Date: October 8, 1818; receipt dated October 13, 1818
- Origin: Londonderry, New Hampshire
- Author: John Dickey, town selectman
- Recipient: Thomas Griffin
- Format: Original handwritten and signed letter on a single folded sheet
- Reverse: Contemporary manuscript receipt for $20, naming James N. Dickey, with additional docketing
- Historical reference: Edward L. Parker, The History of Londonderry (Boston, 1851)
Condition
Very good antique condition overall. Original folds, light age toning, scattered minor spotting and soiling, and modest edge and handling wear consistent with a manuscript more than 200 years old. Period ink remains legible, including Dickey's signature and the dated receipt on the reverse. Please examine photographs for the complete condition.
Dimensions
7⅛ × 6 inches (unfolded sheet).
