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THE SEA COAST ECHO—SUNDAY, AUGUST 23, 1987-1C
Hancock County named for bold American patriot
1735. He was about the same age as Hancock and it was he who carried the news of the approaching British. Adams and Hancock warned of the danger had time to escape. Revolution was in the minds and hearts of the colonists.
John hancock played an in-conspicous part in the 8 years of the Revolutionary War. Col. George Washington tactfully regretted there was no place at his disposal worthy of Col. Hancock’s qualifications. It was quite obvious that Hancock and Washington had their differences.
Samuel Adams, bom in 1722, was about thirteen years older than John Hancock. He was an outspoken patriot and made many speeches
He was President of the Continental Congress from 1775-77. He was 38 years old when he assumed this responsibility. The reason he was selected President of the congress is less obvious. As presiding officer he had no voice in the proceedings—unless there was a vote tie.
Samuel Adams used his influence in getting Hancock selected to this office. He well knew the temperament and background of Hancock. He knew, too, that Hancock was ambitious to become the commander of the Continental Army.
The man for that position should be, in Adams studied opinion, a person from the South, an aristocrat, a
against the British. He was a friend and advisor and is responsible for Hancock’s selection as President of the Congress.
That Hancock was first among the signers of the Declaration of Independence was a matter of protocol.
man with no personal grevience. George Washington, already a hero, had these qualifications.
Writing developed long ago in man’s history. It is interesting to note that no two persons’ handwriting is exactly the same. Handwriting experts claim that a
person’s handwriting reveals much about his character, temperament, and ability.
John Hancock’s overly large signature could be interpreted as that of an egotist—eager to call attention to himself. Some might say it was the mark of a bold and brave person.
The graceful and beautifully shaded letters surely were a mark of education and culture. In those days much emphasis was placed on penmanship. The signature took up a lot of space. Could that indicate a generous nature? After signing the document Hancock is quoted as saying: “I guess King George can read that without spectacles.” Aged before his time with worry, stress, Bright’s Disease and gout, John Hancock died at the age of 56. He was buried in Old Granary Burying Grounds. No headstone marker was placed on his grave. Many years later one was erected by the State of Massachusetts.
His widow married a captain whose last name was Scott. He was at one time employed by Hancock as master of a brig and boastfully said: “I am now at the helm of the Hancock Mansion.”
Hancock died in office. He was first governor of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
In the year 1817 Hancock County was born. In the hearts and minds of Hancock County settlers a marker was placed. It was erected to the memory of John Hancock, a brave soldier, patriot, and defender of precious liberties. John Hancock i? dead. Long live Hancock County!