Document signed by Joseph Jenckes (1656-1740), as Colonial Governor of Rhode Island and Providence Plantations. [Providence], Rhode Island, 15 June 1727. 1 page, 12 1/4 x 7 1/2 in. With original seal and docketing to verso. 

A fine colonial commission appointing Richard Sailes to the "post and office of Lieut. of the Second Company or Train'd Band of the Town of Providence in this Colony" for a "term of three years or until you be legally discharged therefrom and to command, guide, and conduct the same; or any part thereof; and in case of any Invasion or assault of a Common Enemy...[to] alarm and gather together the Company or Train'd Band and under your Command or any part thereof as you shall Deem sufficient and with them to the utmost of your skill & ability, you are to resist, expulse, expell, kill and Destroy the same in order to preserve the Interest of his Majesty and his Good Subjects in these parts."

Richard Sailes (alt. Sayles, 1695-1775) was a lifelong resident of Smithfield, Providence, Rhode Island. Interestingly, his son, also Richard Sayles (1723-1807), served as a Lieutenant in the Revolutionary War and is listed as being paid for a note "given for slaves [enlisted] into the Continental Battalions." (Sidney S. Rider. An Historical Inquiry Concerning the Attempt to Raise a Regiment of Slaves during the War of the Revolution. p. 73)

Joseph Jenckes (1656-1740) was a politician who served as the 19th Governor of the Colony of Rhode Island Providence Plantations from 1727 to 1732. During his tenure, he navigated boundary disputes with both Connecticut and Massachusetts. 

An excellent colonial commission. 

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