1728-1885; bulk: 1728-1815
Guide to the Collection
Microfilm sponsored by a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities. The original manuscripts were digitized thanks to the generosity of Hancock scholar, Dr. Jeffrey Griffith.
Restrictions on Access
Use of the originals is restricted. This collection is available as color digital facsimiles (see links below).
Abstract
The microfilm edition of the Hancock family papers, 1728-1885, consists of manuscripts from various collections at the Massachusetts Historical Society, including the Hancock family papers.
Biographical Sketches
Thomas Hancock (1703-1764)
Thomas Hancock was a wealthy Boston merchant and the uncle of John Hancock (1737-1793). After early successes as a bookseller, publisher, and paper maker, he became an influential overseas merchant, importing manufactured goods and exporting rum, whale oil, and fish. His fortune grew during international hostilities in the 1740s, when he tapped into several lucrative overseas markets, and profitable contracts supplying British forces during King George's War and the French and Indian War made him one of the richest men in Boston. He owned real estate in Boston and northern New England and was elected to the Massachusetts Council in 1758.
John Hancock (1737-1793)
John Hancock was a Revolutionary patriot, merchant, and politician. The son of Rev. John Hancock (1702-1744), minister of Braintree, he moved to Boston after the death of his father and was educated by his uncle Thomas Hancock (1703-1764). In 1754, he graduated from Harvard and joined his uncle's merchant business, taking over when Thomas Hancock died in 1764. Initially moderate, John Hancock's politics became more radical as British policies became more severe, and British attempts to raise revenue in the colonies, such as the Sugar Act of 1764 and the Stamp Act of 1765, were disastrous for his business.
Hancock's wealth and social standing made him very influential in the patriot cause. He was a Boston selectman from 1765 to 1774 and a member of the Massachusetts General Court from 1766 to 1774. When his sloop Liberty was seized by customs officers in May 1768 on charges of smuggling, a riot ensued. On 5 March 1774, he delivered a stirring oration commemorating the Boston Massacre four years before. Hancock was elected president of the Provincial Congress in October 1774, delegate to the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia in December 1774, and finally (by unanimous vote) president of the Congress, a position he held from May 1775 to October 1777. He presided over the debate on the Declaration of Independence and was the first to sign it in 1776.
In 1780, the citizens of Massachusetts approved a state constitution, and Hancock was elected the first governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. A popular governor, he served from 1780 to 1785 and then again from 1787 until his death. In May 1787, the Constitutional Convention convened to replace the Articles of Confederation with a federal constitution, and Hancock was named as president in January 1788. He favored ratification, but with changes that would curb some of the powers of the federal government. It was largely due to Hancock's support that the Constitution was finally ratified by a vote of 187 to 168.
John Hancock married Dorothy Quincy (1747-1830) in 1775, and the couple had two children, neither of whom lived to adulthood.
Ebenezer Hancock (1741-1819)
Ebenezer Hancock was the younger brother of John Hancock and served as deputy paymaster general of the Continental Army beginning in June 1776.
Sources
Fowler, William M., Jr. "John Hancock." American National Biography. Ed. John A. Garraty and Mark C. Carnes. Vol. 9. New York: Oxford University Press, 1999. 968-970.
Fowler, William M., Jr. "Thomas Hancock." American National Biography. Ed. John A. Garraty and Mark C. Carnes. Vol. 9. New York: Oxford University Press, 1999. 972-973.
Collection Description
The bulk of this microfilm edition consists of the Hancock family papers, supplemented by letters and other papers related to the Hancock family from other collections at the Massachusetts Historical Society. The family members most prominently represented in this microfilm edition are Thomas Hancock (1703-1764) and John Hancock (1737-1793). The collection also contains some papers of John Hancock's brother Ebenezer Hancock (1741-1819), including his monthly returns to the Continental Congress as deputy paymaster general, 1776-1779. Other family members include John Hancock's wife Dorothy Quincy Hancock (1747-1830), his father Rev. John Hancock (1702-1744), and his mother Mary Hancock Perkins (1711-1757?).
This microfilm edition consists of business and family correspondence, receipts, bills, contracts, estate papers, deeds, commissions, drafts of state documents, and other papers. Subjects of letters to and from John Hancock while he served on the Massachusetts General Court and as president of the Continental Congress include: equipment, supplies, commerce, the Massachusetts militia, the Continental Army, and other subjects related to the American Revolution. The business correspondence of John and Thomas Hancock deals with finances, accounts, investments, shipping to and from Canada, and other subjects related to the merchant business. Among the correspondents represented in this collection are: William Donnison, James Murray, Thomas Cushing, Artemas Ward, William Livingston, William Heath, Robert Treat Paine, Henry Knox, Edmund Quincy, Edward Browne, Mercy Scollay, and many others. The collection also contains a letterbook, 1745-1750, and receipt book, 1747-1755, of Thomas Hancock and a letterbook of John Hancock, 1780-1782.
This guide supersedes previous guides to the microfilm edition, including the Catalog of Manuscripts of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 7 vols. (Boston: G.K. Hall, 1969).
Acquisition Information
Acquired by gifts and purchases, 1817-1935.
Restrictions on Access
Use of the originals is restricted. This collection is available as color digital facsimiles (see links below).
Other Formats
This collection is available as color digital facsimiles.
Black and white digital images of this collection--produced from the microfilm edition--are available as part of History Vault: Revolutionary War and Early America, a digital resource from ProQuest. This resource is available at subscribing libraries; speak to your local librarian to determine if your library has access. The MHS also provides access onsite to the Society's contributions to this resource; see a reference librarian for more information.
Detailed Description of the Collection
Expand allItems listed below are drawn from the Hancock family papers unless otherwise identified.
I. Volumes, 1745-1885Digital Content
Arranged chronologically.
Thomas Hancock letterbook, 19 Apr. 1745-16 June 1750
Includes correspondence of Fanny J. R. Gilmore, William Rotch Ware, Justin Winsor, and Charles C. Smith concerning the purchase of the volume by the MHS, 16 Mar.-16 May 1885.
Thomas Hancock receipt book, 1747-1755
Ebenezer Hancock reports to the Continental Congress, 24 June 1776-10 June 1779Digital Content
In Deputy paymaster records.Monthly returns from Ebenezer Hancock (1741-1816), Deputy Paymaster General, Eastern Department, to the Continental Congress.
1776
1777
1778-1779
John Hancock letterbook, 7 Nov. 1780-13 Mar. 1782
II. Loose papers, 1728-1885Digital Content
Arranged chronologically.
1728-1757Digital Content
22 Apr. 1728
Deed of sale from Isaac Powers (Littleton) to John Hancock (1671-1752) for an African American boy.
19 Aug. 1728
In Wendell Family Papers.Account of sales of Thomas Hancock and John Wendell.
24 Jan. 1729
In Wendell Family Papers.Account of Thomas Hancock with Jacob and John Wendell.
20 Sep. 1729
Letter from Francis Weedon (Windsor) to Christopher Kilby.
23 Mar. 1732
In Wendell Family Papers.Account of Thomas Hancock with Jacob and John Wendell, Jan. 1731-22 Mar. 1732.
8 July 1732
Account of Francis Wilks (London) with William Tyler and Thomas Hancock for the sale of a shipment of train oil and whale fins.
7 July 1733
Letter from William Wells (St. Christopher) to Christopher Kilby about hurricane damage to shipping.
4 June 1735
Receipt from Henry Woodman (Milton) to Daniel Henchman, enclosed with letter from James Gooding to Tyler and Hancock, 7 Apr. 1736.
17 Jan. 1736
In Dolbeare Family Papers.Deed from William Clarke to Thomas Hancock for a share of property located at Bellingham.
7 Apr. 1736
Letter from James Gooding (Falmouth) to Messrs. Tyler and Hancock about work on Hancock's ship, enclosed with receipt from Henry Woodman to Daniel Henchman, 4 June 1735.
22 Oct. 1736
In Winslow Warren Papers.Customs certificate from William Shaeffe to Thomas Hancock for import of goods.
12 Sep. 1737
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Account of Thomas Hancock with William Rotch for whale oil and whale bone.
17 Jan. 1740
In Wendell Family Papers.Statement of Thomas Hancock and Andrew Oliver, 17 January 1740, certifying their presence at the burning of merchant notes brought in by Jacob Wendell, on same manuscript leaf with statements of Thomas Hancock and Daniel Henchmen certifying their presence, 29 Feb. 1740 and 29 Oct. 1740.
16 Sep. 1741
In Photostat Collection.Certificate from William Shaeffe, customs collector at Boston, to Thomas Hancock for sewing silks shipped by Francis Wilks (London) on board the ship Peter and Mary.
13 May 1742
In Frederick Lewis Gay Papers.Account of Thomas Hancock with Thomas Fleet for primers, 1741-1742.
16 June 1742
Bill of exchange from C. Limbrey (St. John's, Newfoundland) to Capt. Silas Atkins, payable through Henry Limbrey.
12 Oct. 1743
Bill of exchange from a Fogo merchant to Thomas Hancock, payable through William Black.
10 May 1744
Letter of condolence from Mary Hubbard (Boston) to Mary Hancock on the death of her husband Rev. John Hancock.
5 June 1744
Bill of exchange from Mortayn Harding (Bona Vista) for Thomas Hancock.
11 June 1744
Certificate from John Malone (Bay Bulls, Newfoundland) to Capt. Joseph Stapledon for unloading a cargo of rum, sugar, and molasses shipped on board the sloop Charming Jenny from Boston.
24 Aug. 1745
Draft of letter from Thomas Hancock (Boston) to [James Wibault] about shipment of supplies and the latest news of French fleet operations.
31 Dec. 1745
In William Pepperrell Papers.Letter from Thomas Hancock (Boston) to William Pepperrell congratulating him on his success at Louisbourg.
5 Mar. 1746
In Photostat Collection.Invoice from Richard Hill (Madeira) to Thomas Hancock for shipment of wine and citron on board the sloop Ranger.
26 Mar. 1746
In Photostat Collection.Account of Thomas Hancock with William More for carpenter services.
28 June 1746
In Photostat Collection.Account of Thomas Hancock with William More for work on his house.
19 Aug. 1746
In Photostat Collection.Instrument by John Hancock (1671-1752) devising distribution of his estate.
18 Sep. 1746
In Revere Family Papers.Account of Thomas Hancock with Thomas Cole.
19 Nov. 1746
In Photostat Collection.List of documents deposited by Sir Peter Warren with his attorneys, Charles Henry Frankland, Charles Apthorp, and Thomas Hancock, with notation by Thomas Hancock regarding their location.
24 Dec. 1746
In Revere Family Papers.Account of Thomas Hancock with James Clarke.
25 May 1747
Letter from Jonathan Barnard (London) to Thomas Hancock about a commission for his brother at Louisbourg.
18 July 1747
In Photostat Collection.Deed of sale from Charles Brackenbury (Hull, England) to Charles Apthorp and Thomas Hancock for an assignment of convicts deported from England.
5 Mar. 1748
Letter from John Mitchell (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock about the receipt of various articles.
10 Mar. 1748
Letter from Edward Browne (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock about various supplies needed.
30 Apr. 1748 and 10 May 1748
Letter from Edward Browne (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock about receipt of supplies, 30 April 1748.
Letter from Edward Browne (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock acknowledging receipt of supplies requested, 10 May 1748.
11 June 1748
Letter from John Mitchell (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock about a hunting saddle, etc.
12 June 1748
Letter from Edward Browne (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock about supplies.
18 June 1748 and October 1748
Letter (copy) from Thomas and Adrian Hope (Amsterdam) to Thomas Hancock 18 June 1748 regarding a shipment of tea and paper on board the Young Jacob. On folded leaf with letter dated Oct. 1748.
Letter from Thomas and Adrian Hope (Amsterdam) to Thomas Hancock, October 1748 about the seizure of the sloop Young Jacob carrying a consignment of tea and paper on his order and about information relating to prices of velvet. On folded leaf with copy of letter dated 18 June 1748.
Photocopy stored in Box 1 (filed at June date), original stored in OS box.
Document appears on microfilm at October 1748 date.
6-11 July 1748
Letters from Jonathan Barnard (London) to Thomas Hancock about reimbursement for an insurance payment covering the shipment of Gov. Shirley's coach.
19 July 1748
Letter from Jonathan Barnard (London) to Thomas Hancock on business matters.
24 Aug. 1748
Letter from Edward Browne (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock and Charles Apthorp about shipping supplies to Nova Scotia instead of Louisbourg.
Sep. 1748
Letter from Jonathan Barnard (London) to Thomas Hancock about his dissatisfaction with the settlement of Gov. Shirley's account.
6 Sep. 1748
Letter from Edward Browne (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock and Charles Apthorp about hiring a ship to carry stores from Louisbourg to Nova Scotia.
30 Sep. 1748
Letter from John Mitchell (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock about business matters and the abandonment of engineering works at Louisbourg.
8 Oct. 1748
Letter from Edward Browne (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock about their accounts.
Letter from John Mitchell (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock on matters relating to his account.
10 Nov. 1748
Duplicate of letter from Robert Ellison (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock on ordering supplies.
15 Nov. 1748
Letter from Edward Browne (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock about accounting for missing items in his shipment of supplies.
26 Nov. 1748
Letter from Edward Browne (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock arranging payment for his account.
3 Dec. 1748
Letter from John Mitchell (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock about a financial matter.
5 Dec. 1748
Letter from Edward Browne (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock about shipping supplies and payment of his account.
14 Feb. 1749
Letter from Edward Browne (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock about his account.
31 Mar. 1749
Letter from John Mitchell to Thomas Hancock about collecting payments on his money lending.
14 Apr. 1749
Letter from Edward Browne (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock about a correction on his account.
8 June 1749
Letter from Edward Browne (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock about securing passage to England for his servant Elizabeth Armstrong.
26 June 1749
Draft of letter from [Thomas Hancock] (Boston) to John H. Bastide with fatherly advice and family news.
20 Aug. 1749
Letter from John Mitchell (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock on business matters.
1 Sep. 1749
Letter from William Powell (Chebucto) to Thomas Hancock about payment of his debt.
18 Oct. 1749
Letter from William Powell (Chebucto) to Thomas Hancock on a financial matter.
12 Feb. 1750 and 27 Feb. 1750
Letter from John Mitchell (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock about his accounts and an order for supplies, 12 February 1750.
Letter from William Powell (Chebucto) to Thomas Hancock on business matters, 27 Feb. 1750.
2 Mar. 1750
Letter from John Mitchell (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock about sending supplies to his account.
20 June 1750
Letter from William Powell to Thomas Hancock about a mistake in his account and news of a party captured by Native Americans.
Letter from John Mitchell (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock on a financial matter.
6 Aug. 1750
Letter from Edward Hows (Annapolis Royal) to officers of the Ordnance Board about drawing bills of exchange on the firm of Apthorp and Hancock.
21 Oct. 1750
Letter from William Powell (Halifax) to [Thomas Hancock] about buying Capt. Bellons's command.
22 Oct. 1750
Letter from John Mitchell (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock about his accounts.
29 Oct. 1750
Letter from William Powell (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock about forwarding letters to England for him.
6 Nov. 1750
Letter from John Mitchell (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock on a financial matter.
21 Nov. 1750
Letter from William Powell to Thomas Hancock about receipt of supplies and asking him to forward his letters to England.
25 Dec. 1750
Letter from William Powell (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock ordering supplies.
17 Jan. 1751
Letter from John Mitchell (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock on business matters.
5-6 Apr. 1751
Original and duplicate copy of letter from John Mitchell (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock on financial matters.
27 Apr. 1751
Letter from John Mitchell (Halifax) to [Thomas Hancock] ordering supplies and about his new command at George's Island.
4 May 1751
Letter from Edward Browne (Placentia, Me.) to Thomas Hancock about shipments of goods going astray.
26 Aug. 1751
Letter from John Mitchell (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock about his accounts.
8 July 1751
Inventory of the household goods of Mary Hancock at the time of her marriage to Daniel Perkins.
31 Aug. 1751
Bill of exchange from Thomas Hancock (Boston) for Kilby and Barnard as a cash advance for shipment of vinegar to Nova Scotia.
20 Feb. 1752
Account of Thomas Hancock with John Avery, 1750-1751.
28 Feb. 1752
Letter from John Mitchell (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock about the sale of lime to the government.
22 Mar. 1752
Letter from John Mitchell (George's Island) to Thomas Hancock on business matters.
20 Aug. 1752
Deed from Thomas Mitchell to Thomas Hancock for land in Lexington.
8 Sep. 1753
Bill of exchange from Robert Cole (Fogo) to Thomas Hancock, payable through William Ritter.
11 Sep. 1753
In Otis Family Papers.Letter from Thomas Hancock and Charles Apthorp (Boston) to Mr. Lombard about determining the share in prizes taken by Captain Hughes's sloop.
7 Mar. 1754
Note from Agnes Parker (Boston) to Thomas Hancock.
6 June 1754
In Groton (Mass.) Historical Papers.Account of Thomas Hancock with the committee for building the Groton meetinghouse.
19 Mar. 1755
Bond from Thomas Hawding (Boston) to Thomas Hancock, signed by John Hancock as witness.
List of persons licensed to sell tea, coffee, and china ware in Suffolk County for the following year, 25 July 1755.
8 Mar. 1756
In Charles Edward French Autograph Collection.Deposition of John Wendell, 8 March 1756, along with the deposition of Thomas Hancock (Boston) on 20 March 1762 regarding restitution in the capture of the ship William Galley.
Note: The original manuscript (with both depositions) is filed under 8 March 1756. The document appears on microfilm under 20 March 1762.
10 May 1756
Letter from Jonathan Barnard (London) to Thomas Hancock introducing his son John and asking his care.
2 Sep. 1756
Deed from John Cone (East Haddam, Conn.) to Thomas Hancock for land at East Haddam.
Photocopy stored in Box 1, original stored in OS box.
6 Nov. 1756
Promissory note from Benjamin Holt (Boston) to Thomas Hancock.
3 Jan. 1757
Order from [Thomas Hancock] (Boston), as attorney for Kilby and Barnard, to Capt. Alexander Inglish for a voyage from Antigua to London on the ship Boston, with acknowledgment by Inglish.
26 Feb. 1757
Order from Thomas Hancock (Boston) to Capt. James Nickolls for a voyage of the sloop Endeavor to move troops from Castle William to Halifax.
1758-1768Digital Content
26 Jan. 1758
Letter from Richard Streat [Treat] (London) to Mrs. Bulkeley about her son's affairs, with endorsement acknowledging receipt, 29 Apr. 1758.
9 May 1758
Letter from Stephen Child (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock about reimbursement for travel expenses for a trip to Boston and news of navy arrivals.
13 May 1758
Letter from Patrick Mackellar (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock ordering candles, etc.
27 June 1758
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Account of John Wait with Thomas Hancock, 1756-1758.
4 July 1758
Order from John Hancock (Boston) to Henry Atkins.
20 Sep. 1758
Invoice and receipt from William Millar (Boston) to the account of Thomas Hancock for a shipment of bricks and oats carried to Annapolis Royal aboard the sloop Hannah and Martha.
21 Sep. [1758]
Receipt for powder delivered for Gen. Jeffery Amherst's troops by Capt. John Wheelwright.
15 Oct. 1758
Account of carpenters and masons employed by the Board of Ordnance at Annapolis Royal, 1 Oct. 1758 to 12 Oct. 1758, signed by John Hancock as witness, with memorandum of payment by Thomas Hancock.
31 Mar. 1759
Contract of Thomas Hancock with Alexander Sweeny (Boston) for charter of the schooner Appollo to carry troops to Annapolis Royal.
Photocopy stored in Box 2, original stored in OS box.
8 May 1759
Promissory note from Nathaniel Cotton (Boston) to Thomas Hancock, with memorandum of payment by John Hancock.
9 May 1759
Draft of letter from Thomas Hancock (Boston) to General Wolfe about shipment of draft oxen, etc., with drafts of two letters, 10 May 1759.
14 Apr. 1760
Letter from George Bastile (Louisbourg) to Thomas Hancock inquiring about damage to his wardrobe in the Boston fire.
3 Nov. 1760
Manuscript copy of Jonathan Belcher's proclamation relating to the recent settlement of Province lands, with notation by Richard Bulkeley to Thomas Hancock regarding its publication in Boston newspapers.
Photocopy stored in Box 2, original stored in OS box.
13 Dec. 1760
Receipt from Joseph Woodmass (Halifax) to Benjamin Green for payment of a sum of money to the account of Thomas Hancock and Charles Apthorp.
19 Jan. 1761
Text of receipt from Thomas Pownall (London) to Thomas Hancock for the return of Province money left in his keeping, written by John Hancock and signed by Pownall.
31 Jan. 1761
Letter from Thomas Stephens (Charlestown) to Thomas Hancock about his potash interests and his pamphlet "The Rise and Fall of Potash in America."
12 Feb. 1761
Letter from Trecothick & Co. (London) to Thomas Hancock about John Hancock's transactions in London.
31 Mar. 1761 [includes 6 December 1760 (copy)]
Letter from Kilby, Barnard, and Parker (London) to Thomas Hancock 31 March 1761 on business matters. This letter is a folded sheet of paper and it also includes a manuscript copy of letter from Kilby, Barnard, and Parker to Thomas Hancock, 6 December 1760.
8 May 1761
Receipt from Gilbert Harrison (London) to Thomas Hancock on behalf of Kilby, Barnard & Co.
8 Aug. 1761
Order from David Pryce (New York) to Isaac Randall to carry provisions to Quebec on the schooner Dolly.
31 Aug. 1761
Letter from George Dyson (Annapolis Royal) to Thomas Hancock about army supplies.
6 Nov. 1761
Certificate of naval service and recommendation from Edward Mountford (Portsmouth) to William Hindson.
9 Nov. 1761
Draft of letter from [Thomas Hancock] (Boston) to C. M. Wrangel on business matters.
17 Dec. 1761
Draft of letter from John Hancock (Boston) to David Allen on business matters.
20 Mar. 1762
In Charles Edward French Autograph Collection.Deposition of Thomas Hancock (Boston) on 20 March 1762 regarding restitution in the capture of the ship William Galley, is on same folded manuscript leaf as the the deposition of John Wendell, 8 March 1756.
Note: The manuscript (with both depositions) appears on microfilm under 20 March 1762. (The original manuscript is filed under 8 March 1756.)
20 Apr. 1762
Letter from Jonathan Bowman (Pownalborough) to Thomas Hancock about sending him supplies.
18 May 1762
Contract of Thomas Hancock with Daniel Bragdon for charter of the sloop Good Intent for the transport of troops and provisions to Nova Scotia and Cape Breton, signed by John Hancock as witness.
25 May 1762
Contract of Thomas Hancock with William Duff for charter of the ship Endeavor for use as troop and supply transport, signed by John Hancock as witness.
Photocopy stored in Box 2, original stored in OS box.
31 May 1762
Contract of Thomas Hancock with Samuel Crocker and Samuel Sturgis for charter of the ship Lucretia for use as transport to Nova Scotia and Cape Breton, signed by John Hancock as witness.
1 June 1762
Contract of Thomas Hancock with Edward Grow for charter of the ship Charming Molly for use as transport to Nova Scotia and Cape Breton, signed by John Hancock as witness.
30 June 1762
Letter from Thomas Saul (Bristol) to Thomas Hancock about official appointments at Nova Scotia and changes in the British ministry.
10 Aug. 1762
Order from Miles Greenwood (Annapolis Royal) to Thomas Hancock to pay Joseph Winniett for carting provisions.
6 Dec. 1762
Draft of letter from [John Hancock] (Boston) to Joseph Hawley about legal proceedings against Eleazer Burt.
1763?
Memo by John Hancock on David Allen's investment.
15 Jan. 1763
Letter from David Allen (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock about his investments.
17 Feb. 1763
Letter from David Allen (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock about an investment.
19 Feb. 1763
Account of Thomas Hancock with Joseph Halley [Hawley].
28 Feb. 1763
In Washburn Autograph Collection.Letter from Joseph Hawley (Northampton) to Thomas Hancock about a legal matter.
11 Mar. 1763
Draft of letter from Thomas Hancock (Boston) to Joseph Halley [Hawley] authorizing him to represent his interests in a business matter.
5 Mar. 1763
Copy of Thomas Hancock's will, 5 March 1763, probated 10 Aug. 1764, enclosed with letter from Dorcas P. Gay (Gardiner, Me.) to R. C. Winthrop, 16 May 1885.
Letter, 16 May 1885 from Dorcas P. Gay (Gardiner, Me.) to R. C. Winthrop about the will of Thomas Hancock. (This letter was enclosed with copy of Hancock's will, 5 Mar. 1763.)
Photocopy stored in Box 2, original stored in OS box.
27 Apr. 1763
Bill of exchange from Thomas Williams (Annapolis Royal) to Thomas Hancock for Joseph Winniett.
Bill of exchange from Thomas Williams (Annapolis Royal) to Thomas Hancock for Stephen Rodda.
Bill of exchange from Thomas Williams (Annapolis Royal) to Thomas Hancock for Robert Campbell.
18 May 1763
Account of Thomas Williams with Thomas Hancock & Co.
20 May 1763
Letter from David Allen (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock about business affairs.
24 May 1763
Receipt from Samuel Winsor (Boston) to Jonathan Hoar for payment of the charter of the sloop Unity.
26 May 1763
Notary's protest by William Tudman (London) against non-payment of a bill of exchange from Joseph Woodmass (Halifax) to William Woodmass for Thomas Hancock, with copy of bill, 11 Jan. 1763.
7 June 1763
Bond from Thomas Crandon to Thomas Hancock.
18 June 1763
Letter from Matthew Woodford (Southton) to Thomas Hancock about army supplies.
6 July 1763
List of treasurer's notes and Faneuil Hall lottery tickets held for David Allen, with memo on the loss of New London lottery prizes.
22 Aug. 1763
Letter from Hugh Wallace (New York) to Thomas Hancock on business affairs.
10 Sep. 1763
Letter from Thomas Hancock (Boston) to Thomas Pownall about the presentation of Pownall's portrait to the governor and Council of Massachusetts, with receipt from Thomas Pownall (London) to John Hancock for settlement of his account with Thomas Hancock, 23 Mar. 1769.
17 Sep. 1763
Bill from Nathaniel Hurd (Boston) to Thomas Hancock for engraving a seal for Gov. Wilmot of Nova Scotia.
19 Oct. 1763
Bill from John Tarbox (Boston) to Thomas Hancock.
5 Nov. 1763
Bill of exchange from Thomas Williams (Annapolis Royal) to Thomas Hancock for Mrs. Mary Winniett.
18 Nov. 1763
Draft of letter from [John Hancock] (Boston) to Joseph Woodmass on business matters.
23 Nov. 1763
Order from Ebenezer Thayer, Jr. (Braintree) to Thomas Hancock on business matters.
12 Dec. 1763
Order from John Mackett (Boston) to Thomas Hancock for payment to Jacob Coplen for shipment ballast.
3 Mar. 1764
Bond from Thomas Hancock to John Bryant.
19 Mar. 1764
Order from Thomas Williams (Annapolis Royal) to Thomas Hancock for Stephen Rodda.
20 Mar. 1764
Letter from David Allen to Thomas Hancock about investments.
21 May 1764
Letter from [Thomas Hancock] (Boston) to Joseph Halley on business matters.
23 May 1764
Letter from Folger & Gardner (Nantucket) to Thomas Hancock & Co. on business matters.
11 June 1764
Order from Thomas Williams (Annapolis Royal) to Thomas Hancock & Co. for Capt. George Mitchell.
20 June 1764
Letter from Benjamin Green (Halifax) to Thomas Hancock about the overdue balance on the government's account and means for payment.
23 June 1764
Invoice from [John Hancock] (Boston) for a cargo of whale oil shipped to London on the Boston Packett by Thomas Hancock & Co.
13 Aug. 1764
Receipt from James Dickey (Boston) to John Hancock for shipment of supplies to the troops at Ft. Cumberland on the ship Lucy, with receipt from Joshua Winslow (Port Cumberland) to James Dickey for delivery, 30 Aug. 1764.
17 Aug. 1764
Draft of letter from [John Hancock] (Boston) to Josiah Barker and Jonathan Burnell about his business relations with them following his uncle's death.
19 Dec. 1764
Invoice from John Hancock (Boston) for shipment of whale oil on the brigantine Lydia.
11 Jan. 1765
In Photostats Collection.Letter of condolence from Thomas Pownall (London) to John Hancock on the death of his uncle Thomas Hancock and about property left in his charge, a collectorship at Pownalborough, and his past service to the Province.
25 Jan. 1765
Statement from John Hancock to the estate of Peter Warren of Warren's account with the Thomas Hancock estate, 1759-1765.
26 Jan. 1765
Statement from Ben Jackson of Thomas Hancock's account with Jackson's father Joseph Jackson.
4 Mar. 1765
Draft of letter from [John Hancock] (Boston) to Gen. Thomas Gage about accounts, with draft of letter from [John Hancock] to G. Maturin about receiving Gen. Gage's warrant for payment of his account and forwarding his dispatches to Halifax.
6 July 1765
Draft of letter from [John Hancock] (Boston) to Thomas Pownall about Pownall's investments and the embarrassed state of American trade.
28 Aug. 1765
Letter (copy) from Thomas and Adrian Hope (Amsterdam) to Thomas Hancock, William Tyler, and Capt. Joseph Frost, 8 August-28 August 1765. About news of the fall of Flanders, with copies of letters relating to commodity prices, the capture of their vessel Three Friends, and the arrival of Capt. Forsyth.
Photocopy stored in Box 2, original stored in OS box.
14 Oct. 1765
Account of John Hancock with Messrs. Folger and Starbuck for a voyage to South Carolina.
22 Oct. 1765
Bill of exchange from William Doliber (Boston) to Barnard and Harrison for John Hancock, endorsed by John Hancock.
16 Jan. 1766
Bill of exchange from John Hancock (Boston) to Matthew Woodford for Barnard and Harrison for advance payment for the purchase of provisions for Nova Scotia.
19 Apr. 1766
In Charles Edward French Autograph Collection.Letter from Joshua Winslow (Cumberland) to John Hancock on business matters.
16 May 1766
Letter from John Barnard (London) to John Hancock about colonial trade.
10 June 1766
Bond from John Hancock for money borrowed by Stephen Sewall, professor of Hebrew at Harvard, with Hancock's signature or initials appearing 11 times through 1783.
Note: A photostat copy of this manuscript is in the Photostats Collection.
June 1766-Aug. 1767
Lists of bills and remittances of [John Hancock] drawn on Harrison and Barnard, June 1766-Jan. 1767
List of bills and remittances on John Hancock's account with Harrison, Barnard, and Spragg, June 1766-Jan.1767
8 July 1766
Draft of letter from [John Hancock] (Boston) to David Allen about Allen's note.
20 July 1766
Statement from John Hancock to David Allen of his monies left in the hands of Thomas Hancock, 1763-1766.
11 Aug. 1766
Deed from Joshua Freeman to John Hancock for the benefit of creditors.
12 Nov. 1766
Draft of letter from [John Hancock] (Boston) to Benjamin Gerrish on matters of business.
Letter from Jonathan Barnard (London) to John Hancock about his Boston property.
23 Dec. 1766
Letter from Joshua Winslow (Cumberland) to John Hancock about army supplies.
1 Apr. 1767
Letter from David Allen (Haverfordwest) to John Hancock about investments.
18 Aug. 1767
Bill of exchange from John Hancock (Boston) to Matthew Woodford for Harrison, Barnard, and Spragg.
11 Sep. 1767
Bill of exchange from Benjamin Gerrish (Halifax) to Chauncy Townsend for John Hancock, endorsed by John Hancock.
30 Mar. 1768
Account of [John Hancock] of the sale of cargo salvaged from the wreck of the Betsey on Cape Cod.
12 May 1768
Letter from Joshua Winslow (Chignecto) to John Hancock about accounts and garrison supplies at Chignecto.
24 May 1768
In Ward Family Papers.Bill from John Hancock (Boston) to Artemas Ward for broadcloth, etc.
27 June 1768
In Wendell Family Papers.Bill from Oliver Wendell (Boston) to John Hancock for turtles and pineapples.
1 Aug. 1768
Letter from merchants of Boston about the local non-importation movement.
28 Sep. 1768
Letter from John Mein (Boston) to Thomas Longman on business matters.
30 Sep. 1768
Letter from Giles Tidmarsh (Halifax) to John Hancock about army supplies.
17 Oct. 1768
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Receipted bill to Blanchard and John Hancock for freight and wharfage.
1769-1776Digital Content
2 May 1769
Order from John Davis (Boston) to Ebenezer Hancock.
10 July 1769
Receipt from Richard Billings (Boston) to Ebenezer Hancock for money to be accounted for by John Hancock.
22 July 1769
Letter from Thomas Longman (London) to John Hancock about action against John Mein.
4 Dec. 1769
Letter from Thomas Longman (London) to John Hancock about taking legal action against John Mein.
1770?
Pages from notebook of [John Hancock].
3 Jan. 1770
In Curtis Guild Autograph Collection.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to Col. Jackson ordering a beaver hat. [inserted in James Parton, Life and Times of Benjamin Franklin (New York, 1865), part IV, p. 128]
In Hancock Family Papers.
Letter from Thomas Longman (London) to John Hancock about his legal action against John Mein.
10 Jan. 1770
Bill from Edward Sanders (Boston) to John Hancock.
6 Feb. 1770
Letter from George Hayley (London) to John Hancock about sending him a gift of table china.
6 Feb. 1770
Copy of letter from Hayley and Hopkins (London) to John Hancock on business matters, with letter from Hayley and Hopkins (London) to John Hancock, 17 Feb. 1770. [incomplete]
2 Mar. 1770
Letter from [James Murray] (1713-1781) (Boston) to John Hancock about John Mein's affairs.
3 Mar. 1770
Draft of letter from [John Hancock] (Boston) to James Murray about John Mein's affairs.
21 Mar.-7 Apr. 1770
Copies of letters from Hayley and Hopkins (London) to John Hancock on business matters.
18 April 1770
Address and endoresement page to John Hancock from Hayley and Hopkins by Bryant
21 May 1770
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Bill from Moses Peirce to John Hancock for freight.
4 July 1770
Letter from Thomas Longman (London) to John Hancock about his legal action against John Mein.
6 Aug. 1770
Bill of exchange from Samuel Broome & Co. (New York) to John Hancock for Gerard G. Beekman, with Hancock's acceptance.
22 Nov. 1770
Deposition of John Mein (London) in the case of Longman vs. Mein, presenting various charges in connection with John Hancock's conduct toward him, with copies of related letters, including letter from James Murray (Boston) to Stephen Greenleaf about the appraisal of the attached effects of John Mein, 7 Mar. 1770; letter from James Murray (Milton) to Stephen Greenleaf stating the case of John Mein in opposing the Boston merchants' non-importation agreement, 25 Apr. 1770; and letter from Stephen Greenleaf (Boston) to James Murray about measures to open John Mein's bookshop and the appraisal of his effects, 4 May 1770.
Photocopy stored in Box 3, original stored in OS box.
29 Dec. 1770
Letter from George Hayley (London) to John Hancock about Mr. Blanchard's affairs.
10 Jan. 1771
Draft of letter from John Hancock (Boston) to Thomas Longman and Wright and Gill denying he was offered adequate security on John Mein's debt settlement.
16 Jan. 1771
Draft of letter from [John Hancock] (Boston) to Thomas Longman and Messrs. Wright and Gill about the trial in the suit against John Mein.
1 Feb. 1771?
Letter from Thomas Longman (London) to John Hancock about his legal action against John Mein.
23 Feb. 1771
Bill from Joseph Wheaton to John Hancock for the purchase of a patent windlass.
3 Apr. 1771
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Bill from Peter Rose (Boston) to John Hancock for shoes.
3 Aug. 1771
Order from James Gardner (Boston) to John Hancock for a pair of shoes for Mrs. Jane Henry.
1 Oct. 1771
Order from Samuel May (Boston) to John Hancock for pork for Mrs. Paul Simpson.
2 Oct. 1771
Promissory notes from Joseph Jackson and Thomas Young to John Hancock, with notation by John Hancock correcting the date of inception.
20 Nov. 1771
In Henry Knox Papers.Bill of exchange from John Hancock (Boston) to Hayley and Hopkins for Henry Knox.
NOTE: At the time the microfilm was made the document and the Henry Knox Papers I was on deposit at the MHS. The document has not been digitized because the Henry Knox Papers I collection is no longer at the MHS.
22 Nov. 1771
Bill from William Thompson to John Hancock.
30 Nov. 1771
Receipt from Reuben Macy (Boston) to John Hancock for a cargo of hemp to be delivered to Timothy Coffin at Nantucket on the ship Mary.
9 Dec. 1771
In Appleton Family Papers.Letter from Richard Coffin (Boston) to John Hancock on a business matter.
12 Dec. 1771
In R. C. Waterston Autograph Collection.Bill of exchange from John Hancock (Boston) to Hayley and Hopkins (London) to pay to Henry Knox.
Note: This letter is printed in Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, June 1928, p. 304.
1 Dec. 1771
Receipted bill from John Cushing to John Hancock for whale oil.
13 Dec. 1771
Receipted bill from David Force (Boston) to John Hancock for the purchase of hogs.
21 Feb. 1772
Bill from John Bryant (Boston) to John Hancock for the purchase of beef.
26 May 1772
Letter from Daniel Perkins (Bridgewater) to Ebenezer Hancock about procuring a log of wine.
10 June 1772
Letter from Daniel Perkins (Bridgewater) to Ebenezer Hancock about family news.
17 June 1772
Letter from Richard Perkins (Bridgewater) to Ebenezer Hancock.
27 Aug. 1772
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to James Athearn about a supply of whale oil.
24 Oct. 1772
Letter from Godfrey Malbone (Pomfret) to John Hancock about a mortgage.
30 Nov. 1772
Account of John Hancock with Adino Paddock for chaise and tack repairs.
29 Dec. 1772
In George Lyman Paine Autograph Collection.Bill of exchange from John Hancock (Boston) to Ben and Pugh (London) for Samuel Abbott & Co.
25 Aug. 1773
Receipt from William Browne (Salem) to John Hancock for the purchase of a pair of horses.
14 Jan. 1773
Order from Thomas Walker (Boston) to John Hancock.
11 June 1773
Invoice from Ebenezer Hancock (Boston) of material charged to John Hancock for delivery to Sampson Stoddard, with instructions from John Hancock to his brother Ebenezer.
10 Aug. 1773
Promissory note from John Hancock (Boston) to Capt. Joseph Hood.
22 Mar. 1774
Letter from James Scott (London) to John Hancock about business matters and the proposed act of Parliament to close the port of Boston.
2 Apr. 1774
Bill from Richard and David Owen to John Hancock 2 Apr. 1774 for a scarlet suit, etc., on same manuscript leaf with letter from Richard and David Owen (London) to John Hancock, 17 Nov. 1783.
Document, notary's protest by Tobias Atkinson, 29 June 1774 against non-payment of a bill of exchange from John Hancock (Boston); on same manuscript leaf as handwritten copy of bill of exchange from John Hancock to Hayley and Hopkins, 2 Apr. 1774.
9 Apr. 1774
Letter from James Scott (London) to John Hancock about business matters and shipping arrangements in the face of the closure of the port of Boston.
16 July 1774
Notary's protest by William Tudman (London) against non-payment of a bill of exchange from John Hancock to Hayley and Hopkins for Joseph Russell & Son, with copy of bill of exchange, 21 Apr. 1774.
18 Oct. 1774
In Quincy Family Papers.Letter from Joseph Warren (Boston) to Ebenezer Storer, with reply by Storer and postscript by John Hancock as president of the Massachusetts Provincial Congress. [inserted in Eliza S. Quincy, "Memoir," I, 110-a]
5 Jan. 1775
Bill from Boston Post Office to John Hancock for postage, 1773-1775.
17 Jan. 1775
Order from Nathaniel Balch (Boston) to John Hancock for Thomas Knox.
8 Apr. 1775
Bill from Isaac Basset[t] (Lynn) to John Hancock for shoes.
10 May 1775
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Copy of Benjamin Franklin's proposed Articles of Confederation in John Hancock's handwriting.
7 May and 5 June 1775
Negative photostat in Photostats Collection.Copy (not in Hancock's hand) In Winthrop Family Papers.Negative photostat copy of letter from John Hancock to Dorothy Quincy, 7 May 1775. Hancock describes his journey to New York and activities there. Note: MHS does not have the original of this letter. MHS retains a negative photostat and a handwritten copy in later hand of the original letter.
Copy of letter from John Hancock to Dorothy Quincy, 7 May 1775. [Note: this copy is not in John Hancock's handwriting.]
In Hancock Family Papers.
Letter from John Lowell (ca. 1739-1793) (Charlestown) to Mrs. John Hancock, 5 June 1775, about the difficulty in getting out anything more out of her house in Boston.
10 June 1775
In Washburn Autograph Collection.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) relating to the consignment of flour to the committees of correspondence for the use of the army.
18 June 1775
In Warren-Adams Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Joseph Warren about the appointment of George Washington as commander in chief and other military measures taken by Congress.
19 June 1775
In Ward-Perry-Dexter Papers.Commission of Artemas Ward as first major general of the Continental Army, issued in Congress on 19 June 1775, signed by John Hancock and attested by Charles Thomson. [This commission was enclosed with letter from John Hancock to Artemas Ward, 22 June 1775.]
22 June 1775
In Ward Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Artemas Ward about George Washington leaving to take command of the army and Ward's commission, enclosed with commission of Artemas Ward, 19 June 1775.
Note: This letter is printed in Proceedings of the Massachusetts Historical Society, XII, p. 122.
Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Artemas Ward listing officers and their rank, 22 June 1775
14 Aug. 1775
In Photostats Collection.Letter from John Hancock (Watertown) to Dorothy Quincy about his activities and his plan to leave and join her at Fairfield. [photocopy]
9 Nov. 1775
In Winthrop Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to James Bowdoin about the arrival of James Bowdoin, Jr. from Europe.
14 Dec. 1775
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Copy of letter from Gen. Philip Schuyler (Albany) and others, commissioners of Indian affairs for the Northern Department, to John Hancock, president of Congress, about an inquiry into the Native American statement on disputed Susquehanna lands.
6 Jan. 1776
Letter from William Bant (Rehoboth) to John Hancock about their business affairs and Hancock's debt.
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.
Account of John Hancock with Samuel Sellon for blacksmith services, 1774-1776.
17 Jan. 1776
In Manuscripts Large.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Thomas Cushing about Cushing's replacement as Massachusetts delegate to Congress, reports from the Canada expedition, and Thomas Paine's Common Sense.
1 Feb. 1776
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Thomas Cushing about the expiration of his term as Massachusetts delegate to Congress, military activities, and provision to send money to him for ship construction.
16 Feb. 1776
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Thomas Cushing about expediting naval construction and showing favors, if possible, for his brother.
6 Mar. 1776
In John Thomas Papers.Commission from John Hancock to John Thomas as major general, enclosed with letter from John Hancock to John Thomas, 6 Mar. 1776.
Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to John Thomas, enclosed with commission from John Hancock to John Thomas, 6 Mar. 1776.
7 Mar. 1776
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Thomas Cushing about naval construction and asking for his commission as major general that he "may appear in character."
8 Mar. 1776
In Robert Treat Paine Papers.Order from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to the Continental treasurers authorizing payment to the Congressional Committee for Encouraging the Manufacture of Firearms.
3 Apr. 1776
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Thomas Cushing about the evacuation of Boston, etc.
26 Apr. 1776
In Ward Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Artemas Ward about Congress's acceptance of Ward's resignation.
27 April 1776
Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to unknown recipient.
17 May 1776
Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Thomas Cushing, enclosing a resolve of Richard Henry Lee, etc.
Note: This letter was deposited by the Society for the Preservation of New England Antiquities, 17 Apr. 1960.
21 May 1776
In John Collins Warren Papers.Letter from Mercy Scollay (Boston) to John Hancock about Joseph Warren's children.
4 June 1776
In Heath Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Gen. Heath introducing Col. Roberdeau.
6 June 1776
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Thomas Cushing about privateering successes, with list of prizes taken, including the ship Chance and the sloop Congress, and descriptions of their cargoes.
10 June 1776
In Photostats Collection.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to the Native Americans, by order of Congress, explaining the reason for conflict with Great Britain.
12 June 1776
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Thomas Cushing about progress being made with the navy, enclosing a list of ships, names of captains, number of guns, and the colonies from which they sailed.
In Hancock Family Papers.
Letter from William Jackson (Boston) to the Council of Massachusetts Bay regarding the seizure by soldiers of the goods of Cyrus Baldwin, with certificates on behalf of Mr. Jackson.
16 June 1776
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Thomas Cushing about additional naval appointments, etc.
30 July 1776
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Thomas Cushing about settling his Marine Committee accounts and construction of the frigates.
31 July 1776
Includes memo from John Hancock to the Commissary General regarding the distribution of rations and pay to militias, as well as 3 Sept. 1776 acknowledgement from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Ebenezer Hancock.
5 Aug. 1776
Letter from Benjamin Church, Sr. (Boston) to John Hancock asking for help in getting his son released from prison and about his difficulties in this and in business matters.
26 Aug. 1776
In Ward Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Artemas Ward asking him to take command of the Eastern Department.
26 Aug. 1776
Letter from William Bant (Boston) to John Hancock about taking care of his business at Boston and about town news, with memorandum by Hancock recording receipt of a donation from Thomas Jefferson for Albemarle Co., Va., 2 Sep. 1776.
Photocopy stored in Box 3, original stored in OS box.
3 Sep. 1776
In Grenville H. Norcross Autograph Collection.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Ebenezer Hancock about money for the troops, on resolve of Congress, 31 July 1776.
21 Sep. 1776
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Copy of letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Thomas Cushing authorizing him to outfit the frigate Boston under the command of Capt. McNeil to capture or drive away the British frigate Milford.
26 Sep. 1776
Memo from John Hancock to Congress about appointments of Mr. Franklin, Mr. Deane, and Mr. Jefferson as commissioners to the Court of France.
30 Sep. 1776
In Coolidge Collection of Thomas Jefferson Manuscripts.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Thomas Jefferson notifying him of his appointment as an American commissioner to France.
5 Oct. 1776
Letter from William Bant (Boston) to John Hancock about his business affairs, news of Boston with store locations on Long Wharf, ships, and privateering successes.
Photocopy stored in Box 3, original stored in OS box.
24 Oct. 1776
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Thomas Cushing about finishing the second frigate and Capt. Manly.
3 Nov. 1776
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Thomas Cushing about commissions for the frigates' officers and the theft of Massachusetts dispatches to the Continental Congress.
7 Nov. 1776
In William Livingston Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Gov. William Livingston requesting troops to guard the salt works at Tom's River and to prevent Tory information from reaching Howe.
7 Nov. 1776
In Ward Family PapersCopy of resolution of Congress relating to Gen. Artemas Ward's pay continuing after his official resignation, enclosed with letter from John Hancock to Artemas Ward, 8 Nov. 1776.
8 Nov. 1776
In Ward Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Artemas Ward about Ward's pay while continuing in command after his resignation, enclosed with copy of resolution of Congress, 7 Nov. 1776.
14 Nov. 1776
In William Livingston Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Gov. William Livingston warning him of the approach of the British fleet.
2 Dec. 1776
Letter from William Bant (Boston) to John Hancock about the conduct of his business at Boston.
Photocopy stored in Box 3, original stored in OS box.
30 Dec. 1776
In William Livingston Family Papers.Circular letter from John Hancock (Baltimore) to Gov. William Livingston about the necessity for greater military exertions, with postscript congratulating him on George Washington's success in New Jersey.
1777-1786Digital Content
13 Jan. 1777
In Robert Treat Paine Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Baltimore) to Robert Treat Paine about his situation in Baltimore, war news, etc.
8 Feb. 1777
Bill from Stephen Hall (Boston) to Ebenezer Hancock.
8 Feb. 1777
In Heath Family Papers.Copy of letter from John Hancock (Baltimore) to General Artemas Ward about funds for bounties and recruiting.
9 Feb. 1777
In Robert Treat Paine Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Baltimore) to Robert Treat Paine about war matters.
16 Feb. 1777
In Robert Treat Paine Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Baltimore) to Robert Treat Paine about a contract for howitzers, with postscript about sending him his trunk, on resolve of Congress, 7 Feb. 1777.
25 Feb. 1777
In William Livingston Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Baltimore) to Governor Livingston about New Jersey troops.
25 Mar. 1777
In R. C. Waterston Autograph Collection.Letter from the Marine Committee (Philadelphia) to John Bradford to secure and arm three ships to be commanded by John Paul Jones and others.
1 Apr. 1777
In Heath Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to the Continental commander in Boston about powder from France.
27 Apr. 1776
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Thomas Cushing about the officers for the new Continental vessels.
Note: Images made from microfilm copy.
21 May 1777
In Henry Herbert Edes Collection.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to the Speaker of the Massachusetts House of Representatives about compensation to Charlestown for war losses.
2 Aug. 1777
In Heath Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to General Heath about Peter P. Frye.
14 Aug. 1777
In Heath Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Gen. William Heath introducing Dr. Cutting, apothecary general of the American hospitals.
16 Aug. 1777
In Heath Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to Gen. William Heath asking him to help Mr. DuCoudra's agent collect the baggage left in Boston.
22 Aug. 1777
In William Livingston Family Papers.Copy of letter from John Hancock (Philadelphia) to General George Washington about the arrival of the British fleet in the Chesapeake.
1 Sep. 1777
In Heath Family Papers.Letter from William Heath (Boston) to John Hancock about pardoning Peter P. Frye and asking him to raise the salary of the post of deputy paymaster general held by his brother Ebenezer Hancock.
3 Apr. 1778
In Heath Family Papers.Letter from [John Hancock] to Gen. Heath releasing a detachment of dragoons to his service.
19 Apr. 1778
Bill from John Neat to Ebenezer Hancock for a child's coffin.
19 Aug. 1778
In Winthrop Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Rhode Island) to his wife about the progress of the Rhode Island expedition.
28 Sep. 1778
In Quincy Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock [Boston] to Jeremiah Powell, Mr. Pitts, and Mr. Wendell inviting them to dine and mentioning having Count D'Estaing to breakfast.
2 Oct. 1778
In Heath Family Papers.Letter from [John Hancock] to Gen. Heath declining his invitation to dine.
23 Oct. 1778
Ward Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to President Langdon about settling his accounts as Harvard treasurer.
30 Nov. 1778
In Ward Family Papers.Letter from Artemas Ward (Boston) to John Hancock about his delay in settling his accounts as Harvard College treasurer. [Similar to letter (copy) from Artemas Ward to John Hancock, 9 Dec. 1778.]
2 Dec. 1778
Letter from Robert Smythe (York Island) to John Hancock, 2 December 1778 asking asylum in Massachusetts, with postscript relating to transmittal of his message, 3 Apr. 1779. The manuscript (folded leaf) also includes a letter from Joseph Webb to John Hancock, 28 Apr. 1779.
Letter from Joseph Webb to John Hancock, 28 Apr. 1779. (Note: this is written on the same manuscript folded leaf that includes the letter above.)
9 Dec. 1778
In Ward Family Papers.Draft of letter from Artemas Ward (Boston) to John Hancock about his delay in settling his accounts as Harvard College treasurer. [Same content as letter from Artemas Ward to John Hancock, 30 Nov. 1778]
2 Jan. 1779
Letter from Israel Williams (Hatfield) to John Hancock about his indebtedness and reproaching him for his attitude toward him.
3 Apr. 1779
Letter from Godfrey Malbone (Pomfret) to John Hancock about certain land deals.
25 June 1779
Memorial tribute to Mary Hancock Perkins.
5 Aug. 1779
Letter from Hope & Co. (Amsterdam) to William Bant.
6 Aug. 1779
Copy of Council resolve that Gen. John Hancock replace the garrison at Castle Island reduced by Paul Revere's expedition to Penobscot, copied by John Avery for Col. Thayer, Col. McIntosh, Col. Stoughton, and Col. Holliston.
17 Nov. 1779
Letter from Jonathan Bowman (Pownalborough) to John Hancock about his desire to dispose of his Maine lands.
11-12 Dec. 1779
Letters from Henry Quincy (Newton) to John Hancock about the appraisal of the Parker farm in Newton.
16 Dec. 1779
Receipt from Joseph Cowell (Boston) to Henry Quincy for money received via John Hancock.
12 Feb. 1780
Letter from David Hall (Sutton) to John Hancock offering to purchase his property in Sutton.
29 Apr. 1780
Letter from Jeremiah Allen (Nantes) to John Hancock about buying clothes for him and Mrs. Hancock when he gets to Paris.
4 May 1780
Letter from Henry Quincy (Cambridge) to John Hancock about selling him farm equipment, with receipt in his hand acknowledged by Eunice Quincy.
9 Oct. 1780
Letter from Aaron Cleveland, John Johnson, Joseph Palmer, Ebenezer Scarborough, and Samuel Scarborough (Pomfret) to John Hancock asking him to act as agent in a land deal, with Hancock's acceptance, 14 Oct. 1780.
7 Nov. 1780
In Curtis Guild Autograph Collection.Receipt from William Burbeck (Boston) to John Hancock for money to pay the soldiers at Castle Island.
16 Nov. 1780
Letter from Capt. Samuel Talbot and Lt. Lemuel Gay (Stoughton) to John Hancock resigning their commissions because of undemocratic suffrage in Massachusetts.
11 Dec. 1780
Letter from Benjamin Kimball (Boston) to Gov. John Hancock asking for help in setting up a shop in Boston's South End.
21 Dec. 1780
In Heath Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to General Heath about a receive of the Massachusetts General Court.
Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to Gen. William Heath about recruiting expenses.
29 Dec. 1780
Letter from John De Neufville and Son (Amsterdam) to John Hancock about Anglo-Dutch hostilities.
20 Jan. 1781
Reply by [John Hancock] (Boston) to an address from the Massachusetts General Court.
7 Feb. 1781
Bill from Daniel Williams (Pembroke) to John Hancock for rent of his house due 6 Sep. 1777 and for replacement of furnishings.
26 Mar. 1781
In Meshech Weare Papers.Draft of letter from Meshech Weare (Hampton Falls) to Gov. John Hancock complaining about the practice of recruiting men from New Hampshire to fill the Massachusetts quota.
12 Sep. 1781
In Heath Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to General Heath about recruits and provisions.
24 Sep. 1781
In Heath Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to General Heath on army matters.
14 Oct. 1781
In Ezekiel Price Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to Isaac Smith and others, a committee of Boston merchants, about their request that the French squadron in the harbor be put to sea.
17 Oct. 1781
Letter from Edward Phelon (Boston) to Gov. John Hancock denying authorship of a certain "scurrilous" letter.
31 Oct. 1781
In Winthrop Family Papers.Document sent to John Hancock, In Council, 31 October 1781 about the case of John Temple. [Reminder: this document is not on the microfilm.]
31 Oct. 1781
In Winthrop Family PapersMessage from John Hancock to the Massachusetts General Court 31 October 1781 about the case of John Temple. This is a manuscript copy sent to Temple and James Bowdoin.
1 Nov. 1781
In Caleb Davis Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to Caleb Davis requesting supplies for the keeper of the hospital on Rainsford Island.
9 Nov. 1781
In Meshech Weare Papers.Draft of letter from Meshech Weare (Exeter) to Gov. John Hancock about an American prisoner on parole who has knowledge of British intrigues in Vermont.
23 Nov. 1781
In Robert Treat Paine Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to Robert Treat Paine, 23 November 1781, about action against John Temple, enclosing a Council resolve and papers relating to the Temple case by Temple, John Avery, and others. [Enclosures are dated 30 Oct.-7 Nov. 1781 and listed below.]
Resolve of the Massachusetts General Court regarding the case of John Temple, 2 November 1781. This document includes John Hancock's signature.
Instructions regarding the resolution of the Massachusetts General Court regarding the case of John Temple, 7 November 1781, signed by John Avery.
Extract from records of Massachusetts Council about John Temple, 31 October 1781; a "true extract" written by John Avery.
Statement of John Temple to the Massachusetts Council, 30 October 1781 about his conduct in England before and after his time in the United States, 1778-1779.
19 Dec. 1781
Letter from Allen McLean (North Bolton) to John Hancock about having settled the mortgage on his farm with Thomas Hancock.
1782
Statement relating to a financial dispute between George Dana and Jonathan Danforth.
8 February 1782
Letter from Lavallin Barry (Baltimore) to John Hancock, 8 February 1781, requesting reimbursement for services as an express rider in 1777, with receipt from Rachel Renout to Hancock for the amount and Hancock's notation concerning the transaction, 5 Apr. 1782.
21 Mar. 1782
In Winthrop Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to John Temple, 1 Mar. 1782. [Enclosed with copy of letter listed below--letter (copy) from John Hanson to John Hancock, 1 Mar. 1782.]
In Winthrop Family Papers.
Letter (copy, 2 pages) Also: 1 March 1782 copy of letter from John Hanson (Philadelphia), as president of Congress, to Gov. John Hancock, 1 March 1782, calling for an examination of John Temple's conduct. [Enclosed with letter listed above--letter from John Hancock to John Temple, 21 Mar. 1782.]
In Winthrop Family Papers
Letter (retained draft) from John Temple (Boston) to John Hancock, 21 March 1782, welcoming the investigation into his conduct by the Massachusetts Council.
21 Mar. 1782
In Robert Treat Paine Papers.Letter (copy, 3 pages) from John Hanson (Philadelphia), as president of Congress, to Gov. John Hancock, 1 March 1782 calling for an examination of John Temple's conduct. [Enclosed with letter listed below--letter from John Hancock to Robert Treat Paine, 21 Mar. 1782.]
In Robert Treat Papers.
Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to Robert Treat Paine, 21 March 1782 about action against John Temple. [Enclosed with copy of letter listed above--letter (copy) from John Hanson to John Hancock, 1 Mar. 1782.]
5 Apr. 1782
Receipt from James Greene to John Hancock for payment for mustard.
24 Apr. 1782
In Winthrop Family Papers.Message (copy) from John Hancock to the Massachusetts General Court, 24 April 1782 concerning the investigation of John Temple's conduct.
22 May. 1782
In Photostats Collection.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to John Wendell.[photostat]
15 June 1782
Receipt from Land and Gould to John Hancock for payment of his bill for shaving and having wigs remade.
4 Aug. 1782
In Smith-Townsend Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to Solomon Davis on money matters, with receipt from Davis to Moses Cleveland for payment of a sum on John Hancock's account, 5 Aug. 1782.
30 Aug. 1782
Draft of notice from [John Hancock] (Council Chamber) to Beriah Norton requiring his attendance before the Council.
22 Sep. 1782
In Photostats Collection.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to Meshech Weare concerning the safety of the French ships at Portsmouth. [negative photostat] Note: the location of the original of this letter is unknown.
Letter from [John Hancock] (Boston) to Jabez Bowen about an alert relating to enemy troop movements and pledging aid when needed. [negative photostat] Note: The original of this letter is located at the Huntington Library.
30 Sep. 1782
In Meshech Weare Papers.Drafts of letter from [Meshech Weare] (Hampton Falls) to John Hancock about preparations in New Hampshire in case of a British naval attack.
24 Dec. 1782
Release from Margaret Tidmarsh to John Hancock for receipt of the legacy bequeathed her by her niece Lydia Hancock.
2 May 1783
In Heath Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to General Heath on the general state of affairs.
24 July 1783
Receipt from John Mory [Morey] (Boston) to John Hancock.
18 Aug. 1783
Bond from Nicholas Bowes and John Hancock to Harvard College for John H. Bowes, signed by John Odin.
29 Aug. 1783
In Increase Sumner Papers.Dinner invitation from John Hancock to Judge and Mrs. Increase Sumner.
13 Sep. 1783
In Winthrop Family Papers.Letter from John Temple (Boston) to John Hancock about the bond for good behavior he gave in 1781.
18 Sep. 1783
In Winthrop Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to John Temple about Temple's bond for good behavior he gave in 1781.
31 Oct. 1783
Bill to John Hancock for inoculations at the Point Shirley Inoculating Hospital, with receipt from Thomas Welsh to John Hancock for payment.
24 Nov. 1783
Order (manuscript copy) from John Hancock (Boston) to Captain Isaac Cazneau, et al., about relief of a Dutch man-of-war.
Photocopy stored in Box 4, original stored in OS box.
ca. 1784
In Miscellaneous Bound Manuscripts.Letter from John Hancock to his wife about his activities and preoccupation with matters concerning the Council and General Court.
30 Mar. 1784
In Meshech Weare Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to Meshech Weare about cooperation by New Hampshire in regulating Merrimac River fisheries.
26 Apr. 1784
Letter from Harrison Ansley & Co. to John Hancock about filling his order for goods.
30 Aug. 1784
Letter from David Pryce (Taunton, England) to John Hancock asking him to ship him fish and geese.
11 Oct. 1784
Letter from Winckworth Tonge (Halifax) to John Hancock about his inability to discharge his debt due to the low state of his affairs.
24 Nov. 1784
In William Livingston Family Papers II.
Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to Gov. William Livingston introducing James Sullivan.
16 and 18 Feb. 1785
Order from John Hancock (Boston) to Caleb Davis for Thomas Marshall, 16 February 1785.
Note: Images of previous document made from microfilm copy.
Order from John Hancock (Boston) to Caleb Davis for Israel Hubbard, 18 February 1785.
21 Feb. 1785
Bill from William Donnett (Boston) to John Hancock for blacksmithing services, with receipt.
Account of John Hancock with Caleb Davis.
10 May 1785
Statement from Benjamin Lincoln, Jr. of John Hancock's account with the James Otis (1725-1783) estate, 1783-1785.
4 June 1785
Letter from Mercy Scollay (Boston) to John Hancock about presenting him with a pair of ruffles worked by Sally Duncan.
28 June 1785
Bill from Thomas Russell (Boston) to John Hancock for wine.
30 July 1785
Letter from Edmund Quincy (Boston) to Mrs. John Hancock about Maine lands, etc.
30 Aug. 1785
Bill from James Morton (Boston) to John Hancock for shoeing horses and oxen.
7 Sep. 1785
Letter from Walter Nisbet (Nevis) to John Hancock about his North Carolina property.
1786?
Memo by [John Hancock] on Maine lands.
20 Apr. 1786
Receipt from John Hancock (Boston) to Asa Spalding for payment on a note of Moses and Aaron Cleveland.
21 July 1786
Bond from John Hancock to Isaiah Doane.
1787-1815Digital Content
6 Jan. 1787
Promissory note from Thomas Popkin (Boston) to John Hancock.
10 Jan. 1787
Account of John Hancock with Tuthill Hubbart and William Gooch, 1774-1787.
17 Jan. 1787
In Smith-Carter Family Papers.Letter of resignation from John Hancock as a member of the committee of Brattle St. Church, with draft of Isaac Smith's reply, 18 Jan. 1787.
1 Feb. 1787
Account of John Hancock with Thomas Bass for his services and expenses, 1785-1787.
14 Mar. 1787
In Henry Knox Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to General Knox about his plans for traveling.
NOTE: This document has not been digitized because the Henry Knox Papers I collection is no longer at the MHS.
19 Mar. 1787
In Smith-Carter Family Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to Isaac Smith about selling his pew in Brattle Street Church, enclosing reply, 20 Mar. 1787.
May 1787
Receipted bill from Albany Cushing to John Hancock for emptying the privy.
13 June-17 Aug. 1787
Page of accounts to John Hancock for food and spirits supply.
16 June 1787
Latin school exercise of John Hancock.
Note: Schoolwork not by John Hancock, patriot and governor of Massachusetts (1737-1793), nor by his son, John George Washington Hancock (died Februrary 1787).
July 1787
Copy of letter from Isaac Coffin (Quebec) to the Council about detaining American fishing boats, including the Thisbe, in the St. Lawrence River and asking to overturn the attorney general's ruling, with enclosed correspondence relating to the incident and extracts from the Council minutes, 14-24 July 1787.
5 Sep. 1787
In Henry Knox Papers.Letter from Henry Knox (New York) to John Hancock about a bill for the use of Mrs. McEwens's house during his visit.
NOTE: This document has not been digitized because the Henry Knox Papers I collection is no longer at the MHS.
3 Oct. 1787
Bill from Prince Hall to John Hancock.
25 Dec. 1787
Letter from Ephraim Spooner (Plymouth) to John Hancock about his efforts to have Mr. Eldredge released from debtors' prison.
[1788]
Return of votes for Bristol County representative to Congress.
16 Feb. 1788
In William Livingston Family Papers II.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to Gov. William Livingston about ratification of the Constitution by Massachusetts.
25 Aug. 1788
In Increase Sumner Papers.Dinner invitation from John Hancock to Judge and Mrs. Increase Sumner.
26 Aug. 1788
In Robert Treat Paine Papers.Dinner invitation from John Hancock to Mr. and Mrs. Robert Treat Paine, with appended notes made by R. T. Paine from European Magazine, Dec. 1793.
[1789]
Address from [John Hancock] to the Massachusetts General Court about the choice of George Leonard and George Partridge as representatives to Congress.
Appraisal by [John Hancock] of Hancock lands. [2 copies]
Address from [John Hancock] to the Massachusetts General Court about the acceptance by George Leonard and George Partridge of their Congressional appointments.
4 Feb. 1789
Letter from Edmund H. Quincy (Portsmouth, N.H.) to John Hancock on legal matters.
23 Feb. 1789
Letter from Edmund H. Quincy (Portsmouth, N.H.) to John Hancock on business matters.
12 Apr. 1789
In Washburn Autograph Collection.Receipt from John Hancock (Boston) to Asa Spalding.
1 Sep. 1789
In Henry Knox Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to Henry Knox introducing John Sewall, on letter from Henry Jackson to Henry Knox, 1 Sep. 1789.
NOTE: This document has not been digitized because the Henry Knox Papers I collection is no longer at the MHS.
20 Nov. 1789
Receipt from Thomas Spriggs (Boston) to John Hancock.
9 Dec. 1789
Petition to Gov. Hancock from inhabitants of Ashfield, Mass., for the appointment of Phineas Bartlett as justice of the peace.
179-
List by [John Hancock] of civil officers in various Massachusetts and Maine counties with proposers.
1790?
In John Warren Papers.Letter from John Hancock to Dr. John Warren.
[1790]
Report of the committee of the Massachusetts General Court on the petition of William Frobisher relating to the manufacture of potash and pearlash.
5 Jan. 1790
Receipt from Samuel Dillaway to John Hancock for payment for lumber.
19 Jan. 1790
Message from John Hancock (Council Chamber) to the Massachusetts General Court.
3 Feb. 1790
Bill from Thomas Durfee (Freetown) to John Hancock for butter delivered to Rhode Island in 1778, with notation of payment by John Hancock, 5 Mar. 1790.
22 Feb. 1790
Letter from John Davis, Josiah Stratton, and Henry Taft, selectmen of Holden, to John Hancock thanking him for his donation of land for building a church.
10 Mar. 1790
Promissory note from John Hancock (Boston) to Benjamin Austin, Jr., with Austin's receipt, 15 Mar. 1790.
[1791]
Account of stocks of John Hancock transferred to Nathaniel Appleton's office.
1 Jan. 1791
Letter from William Moseley to William Donnison, enclosing bill of exchange for John Hancock's account.
11 Feb. 1791
Letter from Edmund H. Quincy (Portsmouth) to William Donnison about John Hancock's affairs in his care.
2 Mar. 1791
Letter from Thomas Bromfield (Islington) to John Hancock about entering the stock brokerage business.
10 Mar. 1791
Massachusetts Senate resolve regarding ordnance.
11 Mar. 1791
Massachusetts Senate resolve accepting the proposals of Joseph Ruggles and Ralph Smith to provide supplies for the garrison and convicts on Castle Island.
25 Mar. 1791
Letter from William Donnison (Worcester) to John Hancock about taking care of the settlement of a legal matter at Northampton.
10 Apr. 1791
In Henry Knox Papers.Letter from John Hancock (Boston) to General Knox about a present of fish.
NOTE: This document has not been digitized because the Henry Knox Papers I collection is no longer at the MHS.
2 June 1791
Receipt from John Hancock to Jacob Baldwin for payment on his bond.
Includes postscript: 15 Feb. 1794 Receipt from Joseph May (Boston), on behalf of John Hancock, to Samuel Lyman for payment on Jacob Baldwin's bond.
18 June 1791
Directive of the Massachusetts Senate to Jonathan Warner and William Heath to form a committee to ask the governor and Council for adjournment, signed by Samuel Phillips and David Cobb.
8 Aug. 1791
Docket and endorsement by John Hancock of a letter from William Donnison. [main body of letter missing]
27 Aug. 1791
Letter from William Donnison (Boston) to Gov. Hancock about militia reviews.
30 Aug. 1791
Letter from William Donnison (Boston) to Gov. Hancock about initiating a suit against Timothy Dwight at Northampton.
24 Sep. 1791
Letter from William Donnison (Springfield) to Gov. Hancock about the Hampden County militia.
7 Dec. 1791
Letter from John Tracy (Newburyport) to John Hancock asking him to indemnify Capt. Joseph Wells in the matter of a freedom-seeking stowaway.
1792?
Message from John Hancock to the Massachusetts General Court.
7 Jan. 1792
Bill from Elkanah Cushman to Thomas Hancock for hair dressing.
10 Aug. 1792
Letter from Mercy Scollay to John Hancock about her sick mother.
Nov. 1792
Message from [John Hancock] to the Massachusetts General Court.
9 Nov. 1792
Draft of message from John Hancock (Concord) to the Massachusetts General Court submitting accounts for the service of the Boston militia at Castle Island during the smallpox epidemic and for the services of Dr. Eustis.
10 Nov. 1792
Answer of the Massachusetts General Court to Gov. Hancock's speech at the opening of the session.
Letter from William Donnison (Boston) to John Hancock about Hancock's property and business affairs.
12 Nov. 1792
Message from John Hancock (Concord) to the Massachusetts General Court.
28 Feb. 1793
Letter from Mary Jeffrey (London) to John Hancock about her stormy transatlantic passage.
4 Mar. 1793
Letter from Thaddeus Burr (Fairfield) to John Hancock about building materials for his new house at Fairfield.
18 Mar. 1793
In Cushing-Orne Papers.Letter from Thomas Hancock (Lincoln) to Thomas Fletcher about a personal tribute to [John] Hancock.
26 Mar. 1793
Letter from Josiah Thacher (Boston) to Gov. Hancock about a justice of the peace for Gorham, Maine.
Promissory note from John Hancock to the Union Bank, Boston.
9 Apr. 1793
Promissory note from John Hancock to the Union Bank, Boston.
16 Apr. 1793
Letter from William Donnison (Philadelphia) to John Hancock about his trip to Philadelphia to transact Hancock's business.
25 Aug. 1793
Letter from John Hancock, Jr. (Boston) to Thomas Hancock.
27 Aug. 1793
Copy of John Hancock's proposal to the French consul regarding the sale of prize cargoes taken by the privateer Rolland with proceeds to be held in escrow for determination by the U.S. government, with objection by the consul Mr. [Geyer].
3 Sep. 1793
Letter from William Donnison (Boston) to John Hancock about news from France and privateering activity.
4 Sep. 1793
Letter from William Donnison (Boston) to John Hancock about renting wharf space to an agent of the French Marine and about privateering activity.
1 March 1794
Rent agreement for shop on Ann Street from Messrs. Paul Revere and Son to Joseph Blake, signed by John Hancock
29 May 1794
Letter from Joseph How (Fitchburg) to Dwight Foster asking him to correct military records relating to his army rank during the war so that he can receive proper compensation.
20 June 1794
Receipt from Dorothy Quincy Hancock, as administrator of the estate of John Hancock, to Samuel Lyman for payment on Jacob Baldwin's bond.
9 Jan. 1795
Order from Daniel Scudder (Boston) to Ebenezer Hancock.
23 Mar. 1795
Order from Giles Richards (Boston) to Ebenezer Hancock.
27 Mar. 1795
Order from John Odin, Jr. to Ebenezer Hancock.
1 Apr. 1795
Order from Joseph Scott (Boston) to Ebenezer Hancock.
6 June-1 July 1795
Promissory notes from Thomas and John Hancock (Boston) to Ebenezer Hancock.
1 Oct. 1796
Bill from John Cushing (Boston) to Thomas and John Hancock.
27 Oct. 1796
Letter from Richard Perkins (Boston) to Ebenezer Hancock about the division of the John Hancock estate.
25 Apr. 1797
In Jeremy Belknap Papers.Letter from Thomas Hancock (Boston) to Jeremy Belknap about the purpose of the Massachusetts Historical Society.
[1798]
Bill from Richard Perkins to the estate of John Hancock for services and travel expenses.
1 Apr. 1798
Account of Richard Perkins with Ebenezer Hancock for services and expenses, 1 Mar. 1796-1 Apr. 1798.
Account of Richard Perkins with Mrs. Mary Perkins for services and expenses, 1 Mar. 1796-1 Apr. 1798.
29 Oct. 1799
Letter from J. T. Kirkland (Boston) to John Hancock, enclosing certificate of his election to the Massachusetts Society for Promoting Agriculture.
8 Nov. 1799
Letter from Ebenezer Lowell (Newburyport) to John Hancock, Jr. about the settlement of his mother's estate.
23 Jan. 1815
Petition by Dorothy Quincy Hancock Scott, administrator of John Hancock's estate, to sell real estate to satisfy debts, with objection by Ebenezer Hancock, John Hancock, Jr., and Samuel Spear.
30 Jan. 1815
Petition by Dorothy Quincy Hancock Scott, administrator of John Hancock's estate, to sell real estate, with copy of probate court finding.
Preferred Citation
Microfilm edition of the Hancock family papers, Massachusetts Historical Society.
Access Terms
This collection is indexed under the following headings in ABIGAIL, the online catalog of the Massachusetts Historical Society. Researchers desiring materials about related persons, organizations, or subjects should search the catalog using these headings.