1851 Newburyport, Massachusetts School Department Warrant – Signed by Selectman & Future U.S. Congressman Albert Currier

This original town payment order, dated March 4, 1851, was issued by the Selectmen of Newburyport, Massachusetts to Philip W. Hills for $25.12 charged to the town’s School Department. The reverse is endorsed by Hills, showing receipt of payment on March 5, 1851.

The document is signed by three selectmen:

Nathaniel Horton – prominent local civic leader.

Turner Davis – town official of Newburyport.

Albert Currier – notable Newburyport politician who went on to serve as a Republican U.S. Congressman (1859–1861).

Currier’s presence gives this piece added significance, tying Newburyport’s municipal history to national politics during the turbulent decade before the Civil War. These warrants, used to authorize payments for teachers’ salaries and school expenses, illustrate the financial workings of public education in mid-19th century Massachusetts.

Date: March 4, 1851

Payee: Philip W. Hills

Amount: $25.12

Signatures: Nathaniel Horton, Turner Davis, Albert Currier

Size: Approx. 7.75" x 3.5"

Condition: Excellent for age, light toning, crisp ink, clear handwriting, minor edge wear.

A wonderful addition for collectors of Massachusetts history, Newburyport memorabilia, early American education, or political autographs. Scarce with the signature of Albert Currier, U.S. Congressman.