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1841 Handwritten VT Legal Manuscript Lawsuit Note Patent Fraud Steam Engine Gove

Approximately 8" by 12"

• • Up for sale is a fascinating, original 1841 handwritten legal document from Chittenden County, Vermont. This manuscript offers a compelling glimpse into early American industrial history, featuring a legal dispute over a fraudulent machine patent and an ongoing contract to build a steam engine.

    The document consists of a two-page legal affidavit (written on one leaf, front and back) titled "Motion for Continuance" in the case of Edwin Willett v. Jesse Gove.

    🔍 Document Highlights & Content:

    • The Steam Engine Connection: The defendant, Jesse Gove of Burlington, Vermont, states under oath that he is under contract with L. Stearns & Brothers of Pittsfield, Massachusetts to "put up for them a Steam Engine" to be completed by August 20, 1841. He requests a court continuance because his absolute personal attendance is required in Pittsfield to finish the engine.

    • The Patent Machine Fraud: Gove further states that the lawsuit against him was brought over a promissory note given for a "patent right in a machine." Gove boldly declares that the plaintiff (Edwin Willett) falsely represented the machine's usefulness, and that the device "turned out to be entirely useless and good for nothing," meaning the financial consideration for the note completely failed.

    • Official Signatures:

      • Signed prominently on the front by the defendant, Jesse Gove.

      • Sworn and signed on July 31, 1841, by William H. Platt, Justice of the Peace.

      • Docketed on the reverse side: "Edwin Willett v. Jesse Gove / Motion for Continuance / Filed Aug. 21. 1841" and signed by W. Noble, Court & Condition:

        • Date: July 31, 1841 (Filed August 21, 1841)

        • Location: Burlington, Chittenden County, Vermont / mentions Pittsfield, Massachusetts

        • Material: Period blue-lined rag paper

        • Size: Approx. 8" x 12"

        • Condition: Very Good vintage condition. Features original fold lines from archival storage, minimal handling wear, and minor ink bleed/toning typical of 180+ year-old manuscripts. The dark sepia and blue ink handwriting remains incredibly crisp, legible, and
          

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