Colonial-Era Land Records Signed by Caesar Rodney Donated to Delaware Public Archives

The Delaware Public Archives received a donation of original 18th-century land records bearing the signature of Caesar Rodney, one of Delaware’s signers of the Declaration of Independence.

Donated by Michael and Allison Richards, the documents date from November 16, 1769, to September 19, 1776, and record land transactions in Kent County. They bear Rodney’s signature in his official capacity as Recorder of Deeds. Previously in the custody of Ezekiel Cowgill and passed from Cowgill’s granddaughter, Ellen, to the Richards Family in 1980, the records are now part of the Delaware Public Archives’ collections, where they will be preserved and made accessible for future research.

Rodney served in numerous public offices throughout his career, and the records provide a glimpse into his public service beyond his role in the American Revolution, as well as the everyday transactions that shaped life in colonial Delaware.

“These documents are a wonderful example of the historical records that can still be found in private collections,” said Maegan Peterman, Director and State Archivist. “We’re grateful to the Richards for recognizing their value and entrusting them to the Delaware Public Archives, where they can help researchers better understand Delaware’s past.”

As Delaware commemorates the 250th anniversary of American independence, the donation highlights the importance of preserving the documents that help tell the state’s history.

To learn more about donating historical materials, including the Archives’ Collecting Policy and donation process, visit archives.delaware.gov/accessions/.

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