Manuscript Arrest Warrant in Sierra County, 1857
Downieville: Sierra County, California, 1857. Loose sheet. Loose leaf of blue laid paper measuring 8 x 12.5 inches with recto being a manuscript arrest warrant for a citizen who's a threat to the community and himself when drunk. Verso blank. Three old folds, now mellowed, with two 2-inch closed tears along the right margin of two folds. Good+. Good+. Item #5974 The document attests to the unruly civic temperment of the frontier West, and a casual administration of justice. That said, the streets of today's Western cities appear burdened by much more than mere drunkenness.
An order for the arrest of J. Whittaker, a printer by profession, who "is not in a proper condition to take care of himself being under the influence of stimulating drinks and that for his individual safety and the public asks for an order of the Justice of the Peace ... for safe keeping in the hands of the Sheriff." Written and signed by the sheriff, John C. Ghauley (?) and signed twice by the Justice of the Peace, G. Harris.
Price: $175.00