Declaration Of Independence Signer Stephen Hopkins Acts As A Witness To A Rhode Island Colony Loan

STEPHEN HOPKINS (1707-1785). Stephen Hopkins was a signer of both the Continental Association and Declaration of Independence. He served as governor of the Colony of Rhode Island and chief justice of the Rhode Island Supreme Court.DS. 6 x 8 . November 8, 1734. Providence, Rhode Island. A printed document signed Stephen Hopkins acting as a witness for the obligation of Jonathan Wade to the trustees of the Colony of Rhode Island for 7 pounds. THE CONDITION of this Obligation is such, That if the above bounden Jonathan Wade his Heirs, Executors or Administrators, shall and do well and truly pay, or cause to be paid, unto the above named Trustees, or to such Persons as shall be appointed in their Stead as aforesaid, to and for the Use of said Colony, the full Sum of Three Pounds and Ten Shillings in good and passable Bills of Publick Credit of said Colony.... During this era, colonial governments issued paper money (called Bills of Publick Credit) backed by land mortgages to stimulate the local economy. The Debtor, Jonathan Wade, borrowed money and bound himself under a penalty of 7 Pounds to ensure he would pay back the principal sum of 3 Pounds and 10 Shillings by November 8, 1749 (a 15-year term). The Trustees were a group of prominent colonial officials acting on behalf of the colony, including John Wanton (who was the Governor of Rhode Island at the time). A witness to this document was Stephen Hopkins, who would go on to sign the Declaration of Independence. The payment was designated to discharge one Tenth Part of the Mortgage that the colony held as security on his property. This document is professionally framed with a plaque and portrait. Some losses at top and bottom edges, not affecting content, but otherwise in very good condition.