April 30th,1780-Dated Revolutionary War Period, Massive Four-Sheet Manuscript Document Signed, “General Return of Provisions & Stores” Continental Army... for Rhode Island”, at Providence, Issued to “Charles Stewart, Esquire Commissary General of Issues, Philadelphia, Display Framed, Very Fine.
This four-pages tied together, “Provisional” Manuscript Document measures about 31.5 x 12.5 inches (by sight) and about 37 x 18 inches fully framed, displayed in a simple black frame shown under special protective UV Plexiglas. There is expected light even age tone, yet the legibility of the text is very clear, written in sharp brown ink on sheets of laid period paper. There are typical horizontal and vertical fold lines, accompanied by some scattered minor fold tears where joined, yet overall quite clear and fully readable. (Not examined out of its frame). The Manuscript portions comprise a detailed inventory of provisions available to the Continental Army in Rhode Island. Recorded within are both rationed supplies issued to troops and stores held in reserve for further distribution, as well as notation of provisions that had been lost or depleted. Such records were essential for maintaining logistical oversight of the army’s food and material supply during the Revolutionary War.

This massive provisional list was issued to Colonel Charles Steward, who served as a Delegate to the Continental Congress from New Jersey, and was a Member of the Continental Army staff of George Washington, while in this role as Commissary General of Issues. Documents of this nature reflect the immense administrative effort required to sustain the Continental Army and offer a tangible connection to the logistics that supported General Washington’s forces in the field. The largest such General Return we have encountered and ready to hang on display.

Provenance Ex: Collection of Ambassador J. William Middendorf II.