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By 1815, Barton had fallen into financial hardship after a Vermont land dispute involving the town that bears his name. Refusing to satisfy the court judgment, he was confined in Danville's debtors' prison, where he remained for years. His imprisonment attracted widespread attention, and according to long-standing historical accounts, Marquis de Lafayette ultimately helped secure his release during his celebrated American tour.
This letter was written during Barton's imprisonment.
John Short, remembered locally as Deacon Short and one of Danville's earliest civic leaders, writes after reading a sermon prepared for Barton:
"I thank you for the privilege of reading the enclosed sermon. I read it twice. I do think it well adapted to your case. I hope it will be profitable to all who heard it or may have the privilege of reading..."
The reverse of the manuscript contains a contemporary endorsement identifying the letter as:
"From Deacon Short approving of a sermon... Barton..."
This endorsement confirms the purpose of the letter and links it directly to the sermon discussed in the text, transforming it from simple correspondence into a documented piece of Barton's spiritual support during one of the darkest periods of his remarkable life.
Colonel William Barton (1748–1831) remains one of the best-known heroes of the American Revolution. His daring nighttime raid in July 1777 captured British Major General Richard Prescott without firing a shot, earning national acclaim and promotion by the Continental Congress. Following the war, he helped settle northern Vermont before becoming embroiled in the legal controversy that led to his lengthy imprisonment.
John Short was among the earliest settlers of Danville, Vermont, serving as town clerk and respected community leader. His association with Barton provides an important glimpse into the civic and religious life of early Vermont.
Condition
- Original signed manuscript.
- Dated May 30, 1815.
- Bold John Short signature.
- Contemporary docketing on reverse referencing Deacon Short, sermon, and Barton.
- Light fold wear with excellent overall preservation.
An exceptional Revolutionary War association piece documenting the imprisonment of one of America's most celebrated Revolutionary heroes, enhanced by a contemporary endorsement linking the manuscript to a sermon prepared specifically for Colonel William Barton. This combination of historical association, identifiable participants, and compelling content makes it a highly desirable manuscript for collectors of Revolutionary War, Vermont, and early American history.
