Massachusetts Resignation as Adjutant 1816- Benjamin Crowninshield, Jr -From the prominent seafaring family from Salem

Massachusetts Resignation as Adjutant 1816- Benjamin Crowninshield, Jr -From the prominent seafaring family from Salem. Dated September 9, 1816, this military document of resignation was accepted by the governor of the state.  Benjamin Crowninshield, Jr. resigned as adjutant in the 1st Regiment, 1st Brigade and 2nd Division of the militia.  I am assuming this document was not a discharge from service in the 1st regiment, but only as his position as adjutant.   The resignation is signed by Adjutant General of the Massachusetts Militia Ebenezer Mattoon.

It is believed that this Crowninshield is likely the son of the famous sea captain, part of the sea going family that dominated American merchant shipping and had great political power in America. Junior’s father fought at Bunker Hill, and commanded Cleopatra’s Barge, America’s very first luxury ocean yacht.

Ebenezer Mattoon fought under Horatio Gates at the Battle of Saratoga and attained the rank of major in the Continental Army. He was also a U.S. Congressman, and long time sheriff in Hampshire Co., and a member of the state legislature.  He served as the state’s adjutant general from June of 1816 to January of 1818. it was at the last year on this position he became blind, and was forced to retire from military and civil life.

The condition is very good with folds, light staining and some age discoloration.