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This is an outstanding piece of New Hampshire political and municipal history, signed by William A. Rand (1814–1864) in his official capacity:
\"Respectfully Yours,
Wm. A. Rand
for the Selectmen of Charlestown\"
Historical Significance
This letter was written during William A. Rand\'s first year as First Selectman of Charlestown, the town\'s highest elected office. Rand represented Charlestown in the New Hampshire Legislature (1848–1849) before serving five consecutive years as First Selectman (1852–1856), reflecting the confidence and respect he earned as one of the community\'s leading civic officials.
The recipient, John Butler Richardson (1809–1884), was a prominent Lempster attorney descended from one of New Hampshire\'s early colonial families. Addressed as \"J. B. Richardson, Esq.\", he practiced law and handled legal, probate, and municipal matters throughout Sullivan County.
The correspondence documents an official attempt to settle a dispute involving municipal expenses rather than resorting to litigation, providing a fascinating glimpse into nineteenth-century local government.
Contents
Writing on behalf of the Selectmen of Charlestown, Rand proposes an amicable settlement regarding expenses including:
- Boarding a young girl
- Dr. Davis\'s medical bill
- Charges for the use of a horse
- Travel to Acworth
- Miscellaneous purchased articles
He reminds Richardson that earlier representations indicated expenses would not exceed \"$5 per week, save the Dr. bill,\" and expresses his hope that the disagreement can be settled without going to court.
Poignant Excerpts
\"For the purpose of settling the matter amicably...\"
\"It is my desire to settle the whole matter to the satisfaction of all.\"
\"...should we be so unfortunate as to carry the matter into court...\"
\"...should you conclude to accept our proposition we will send you the money immediately after receiving your acceptance...\"
These passages illustrate the practical responsibilities of New England selectmen, who frequently administered poor relief, medical care, and support for dependent residents long before modern social welfare systems existed.
Biographies
William A. Rand (1814–1864)
Son of merchant Robert Rand of Charlestown, William A. Rand became one of the town\'s most respected public servants. He served in the New Hampshire Legislature during 1848–1849 and was elected First Selectman of Charlestown for five consecutive terms from 1852 through 1856. His repeated election demonstrates the confidence placed in him by the citizens of Charlestown during a period of rapid social and economic change in New Hampshire.
John Butler Richardson (1809–1884)
A distinguished attorney of Lempster, New Hampshire, Richardson belonged to the well-documented Richardson family chronicled in The Richardson Memorial. Throughout his career he practiced law, handled probate and municipal affairs, and was recognized locally as one of Sullivan County\'s respected legal professionals.
Included
- Original 2-page autograph letter
- Original addressed mailing cover
- Clear Charlestown, N.H. circular postmark dated NOV. 23
- Original signature of William A. Rand in official capacity
An exceptional manuscript linking a New Hampshire legislator, First Selectman, and prominent attorney, documenting the day-to-day administration of local government in antebellum New England. An outstanding addition for collectors of New Hampshire history, political autographs, legal manuscripts, postal history, and early American municipal records.
