Edward Rutledge, Signer of the Declaration of

Edward Rutledge, Signer of the Declaration of Independence, Twice-Signed Sheriff's Directive, 1773

Rutledge, Edward (1749-1800). South Carolina delegate to the Continental Congress and youngest signatory of the Declaration of Independence. Partially printed DS, 1p, 12 x 7.25 in. (sight), matted to 13 x 8.5 in., Charleston, SC. September 21, 1773.

Like his eldest brother John Rutledge (1739-1800), Edward studied law in London and returned to Charleston, where he was admitted to the bar in January of 1773. Here, he has signed a directive for the sheriffs of South Carolina to arrest "Sarah Naley" by order of King George III. Naley stood accused of "trespass[ing]"and other offenses by Thomas Dyall. Rutledge's signature appears at lower right and near center on verso.
Condition Report: Toning and scattered areas of spots, with archival strengthening at folds.