Can Anyone Identify This Document?

The party of the first part, Haighley, seems to have been spelled four different ways in the document body. I am very familiar with cursive writing development and traditional spelling, but these issues you see here were what provoked Noah Webster to create his "American Speller" (the dictionary), in order to standardize spellings in America. A forgery would have consistent spellings throughout. The "seal" placements drawn on the page but not sealed in wax officially leads me to conclude that the agreement may not have ever become official. Most likely, it was written by some sort of notary, perhaps a local political figure or lawyer. The embellishments are nicely done, even if the spelling is inconsistent.
 

Top Member Reactions

Users who are viewing this thread

Back
Top