August 2nd, 1776 Revolutionary War Period, Manuscript Payment Document Signed, “James Mattocks,” a Receipt to Je.(dediah) Strong for 39 (Wood) Blocks bored & fitted for Cartouch Boxes to be delivered to Capt. Beebe's and Capt. Bradley's Companies, Litchfield, Connecticut, Choice Very Fine.
Manuscript Payment Document Signed, “James Mattocks” in this rare receipt for payment of specialized drilled wood blocks with cartridge inserts by Je. Strong to be delivered to Capt. Beebe's and Capt. Bradley's Companies, signed for by James Mattocks.

Captain James Beebe (1751-1812) was a notable officer in the 2nd Connecticut Regiment who served in the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. He is most distinguished for his service in George Washington's Winter encampment at Valley Forge. His later role was leading specialized military units. In September 1779, he accepted a commission as a Captain of the Sappers and Miners, a specialized corps of engineers and front-line combatants headed by David Bushnel. He served in this capacity until June 1781 and was an original Member of the Society of the Cincinnati in the State of Connecticut.

Jedediah Strong (1738-1802) of Litchfield, Connecticut, served as a Commissary of Supplies for the Continental Army during the American Revolutionary War. This document reads, if full:

“Litchfield 2nd Augst 1776 --- Recd. of Jo. Strong Twenty Six Shillings Money in full for 39 Blocks bored & fitted for Cartouch Boxes for the Soldiery of Capt. Bebee’s & Capt. Bradleys Companies last Month --- (Signed) James Mattocks”. Docket reads: “James Mattocks Rect. 26S for 39 Blocks at / 8d (pence)”. Very clean with just a couple water spots and well written in rich bold brown ink on fresh looking laid period paper.