Lot 221: News of King George's War arrives in Colonial Massachusetts

BLANCHARD, JOSEPH

Autograph letter signed upon learning of the commencement of King George's War. Dunstable, Massachusetts/New Hampshire: 15 May 1744. One-page autograph letter signed "Joseph Blanchard" without name but likely to Colonel Benjamin Rolfe. 7 3/4 x 6 1/2 inches (19.5 x 16 cm). Flush mounted to an old card, small losses.

An interesting letter with good Colonial militia content. Blanchard writes "I have just now had advice from Col, Tyng that Governor Shirley this morning advised him that War was proclaimed between England and France, there is no doubt of the certaintly of it ... I have the Govnernor's orders to muster every Company & publish the commissions (?) the state of arms and ammunition... favour me with a line of your peaceful(?) state in particular Genl. Rumford."