When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Offered is an original 1833 handwritten legal title abstract relating to a New York real estate transaction involving Peter Augustus Jay (1776–1843), distinguished New York attorney, civic leader, and eldest son of Chief Justice John Jay, America's first Chief Justice of the United States Supreme Court.
Measuring approximately 8" x 6.5" unfolded, this fascinating nineteenth-century legal manuscript appears to be an attorney's working abstract of title, prepared during the examination of a property's chain of ownership. Rather than being a personal letter, the document summarizes recorded mortgages, assignments, executors, and other legal instruments using period legal references to Liber (record book) and page numbers, a standard practice among New York attorneys before the advent of title insurance.
Research indicates the document dates squarely within Peter Augustus Jay's active legal career and references multiple individuals involved in the transaction, including fellow New York attorney Peter W. Radcliff and the Estate of James Thompson, suggesting the manuscript documents a complex real estate or probate matter during the early 1830s.
Historical Significance
Peter Augustus Jay was one of New York's most respected attorneys and public servants. In addition to being the son of Founding Father and Chief Justice John Jay, he served as:
- Prominent New York City attorney
- Recorder of New York City
- Trustee of Columbia College
- Influential civic leader and member of one of America's foremost legal families
The manuscript contains numerous contemporary legal references, including recorded mortgages, assignments, recording dates, dollar amounts, and deed book citations such as Liber 156 and Liber 164, illustrating the methods attorneys used to establish clear title to real property during the early nineteenth century.
While the manuscript clearly documents legal transactions involving Peter Augustus Jay, research suggests it is best understood as a working legal title abstract rather than a personal letter. Whether it was prepared directly by Jay or by a member of his law office has not been conclusively determined, making it an intriguing artifact from the practice of one of New York's leading legal figures.
Item Details
- Original handwritten legal manuscript
- Approximate date: 1833
- References Peter Augustus Jay (1776–1843)
- References New York attorney Peter W. Radcliff
- References the Estate of James Thompson
- Early New York real estate/title abstract
- Handwritten in period iron gall ink
- Measures approximately 8" x 6.5" unfolded
- Wonderful piece of early American legal history
Condition
The manuscript remains in good antique condition with expected age toning, fold lines, edge wear, and handling consistent with a working legal document nearly two centuries old. Please examine all photographs carefully, as they are considered part of the description and accurately depict the item's condition.
This is an outstanding opportunity to acquire an authentic piece of early New York legal history connected to one of America's most distinguished legal families.
📦 Shipping
Your manuscript will be carefully placed in an archival sleeve, sandwiched between rigid cardboard, and securely packaged to ensure safe delivery.
I have been shipping collectibles to collectors for over 25 years, so you can purchase with confidence. Tracking will be uploaded promptly after shipment.
🌟 Please browse my other listings for additional historical manuscripts, autographs, legal documents, political memorabilia, and unique nineteenth-century collectibles. I gladly combine shipping whenever possible.
