Description
1820 Massachusetts Debt Collection Letter Signed Samuel Hoar Jr to Josiah Little. Samuel Hoar Jr. (1778–1856). Born in Lincoln, MA, he graduated from Harvard College in 1802 and was admitted to the bar in 1805. ✔ Signed by Samuel Hoar Jr. – A prominent lawyer and U.S. Congressman. 1820 Debt Collection Letter Signed by Samuel Hoar Jr. to Josiah Little Esq. – Legal & Historical Interest Description: Offered here is an original handwritten letter dated January 10, 1820, sent by Samuel Hoar Jr., a prominent Massachusetts lawyer and politician, to Josiah Little Esq., a wealthy landowner from Newbury, Massachusetts. This letter references a debt of $2,000 owed to Abiel Heywood, Esq., a longtime town clerk of Concord, Massachusetts. The document serves as an important legal and financial artifact from early 19th-century New England, showcasing the personal and business dealings among influential figures of the time. The reverse of the letter bears handwritten calculations, possibly related to the debt or other financial matters. It is addressed to Josiah Little in Newbury, Massachusetts, and includes additional notations regarding the case. This document is an excellent addition to any early American legal, financial, or genealogical collection, especially for collectors interested in Massachusetts history, early banking practices, or the Hoar and Little families. --- Historical Background & Biographies: Samuel Hoar Jr. (1778–1856) Samuel Hoar Jr. was one of Massachusetts’ most respected legal and political figures. Born in Lincoln, MA, he graduated from Harvard College in 1802 and was admitted to the bar in 1805. He became a prominent lawyer in Concord, Massachusetts, known for his sharp legal mind and strong anti-slavery views. Served in the Massachusetts State Senate in 1826, 1832, and 1833. Elected as a U.S. Representative (1835–1837) from Massachusetts. In 1844, he was sent to South Carolina to protest their laws against free Black sailors—a mission that led to his expulsion from the state. He was a founding influence in the Republican Party in Massachusetts, playing a role in the party’s formation in 1854. Samuel Hoar was the father of U.S. Senator George Frisbie Hoar, further solidifying his family's legacy in American politics. --- Abiel Heywood (1759–1839) While not widely known today, Abiel Heywood was an important civic figure in early Concord, Massachusetts. He served as Town Clerk for nearly 30 years, helping administer the town’s legal and financial affairs. His role in local government meant he frequently dealt with legal judgments, taxes, and property disputes. His association with this letter suggests he was involved in a legal judgment or financial dispute with Josiah Little, requiring Samuel Hoar’s assistance in collecting the debt. --- Josiah Little Esq. (1747–1830) Josiah Little was a wealthy landowner and businessman from Newbury, Massachusetts. He was the son of Colonel Moses Little, a Revolutionary War officer, and came from one of Massachusetts' most prominent families. Managed extensive landholdings in Maine, which played a key role in the region’s development. His son, Edward Little, founded Edward Little High School and was a significant philanthropist in Maine. Was involved in numerous land transactions and financial dealings, as evidenced by this document. --- Condition: Original 1820 document, well-preserved with legible handwriting. Ink remains dark and bold, with only minor wear consistent with age. Folded for mailing, with handwritten financial calculations on the reverse. Addressed to Josiah Little Esq., Newbury, Massachusetts. --- Why This is a Great Collectible: ✔ Early American financial history – A legal debt collection letter from 1820. ✔ Signed by Samuel Hoar Jr. – A prominent lawyer and U.S. Congressman. ✔ Mentions Abiel Heywood – A longtime civic leader in Concord, MA. ✔ Related to Josiah Little – A major landowner and businessman. ✔ Ideal for collectors of legal, banking, and Massachusetts history. --- Shipping & Handling: This document will be carefully packaged and shipped in an archival sleeve to ensure safe delivery. Tracked shipping available. 📜 Own a piece of early American financial and legal history! Don't miss out—add this rare document to your collection today!