Salem Witch Trials Manuscript Land Deed Signed By Colonial Massachusetts Magistrates John Hathorne and Bartholomew Gedney.

Rare original manuscript land deed signed by colonial Massachusetts magistrates John Hathorne and Bartholomew Gedney of the Salem Witch Trials. Oblong octavo, one page, dated March 9, 1682/3 and entering the Salem record books on April 3rd 1684, manuscript document in the hand of Recorder Bartholomew Gedney, for the certified transfer of land between Benjamin Gerrish and William Osbourne for five acres of land in the Township of Salem, Massachusetts, docketed on verso. Signed at bottom by John Hathorne, as a member of the Massachusetts council of assistants, attesting to the transaction; signed by Bartholomew Gedney as Recorder; signed by Benjamin Gerrish and his wife, Hannah Gerrish (nee Ruck), at bottom right, with their red wax seals intact; signed by witnesses Hilliard Veren, Jr., and Daniel King, Jr.  Benjamin Gerrish was son of Captain William Gerrish, born at Newbury in 1652, and was collector of his majesty's customs. He married Hannah Ruck in 1676, and had five sons and six daughters. Benjamin, his eldest son was born in 1683, and was later appointed governor of Bermuda in 1754. In very good condition. The piece measures 15 inches by 10.5 inches.