April 12, 1793 dated Pay Order signed by John Trumbull - Artist known as Painter of the Revolution - American Revolution

Front and back shown of this Pay Order signed by George Wyllys, Andrew Kingsbury and John Trumbull.

John Trumbull, born on June 6, 1756, and passing away on November 10, 1843, was an American artist of the early independence period. Renowned for his historical paintings of the American Revolutionary War, he earned the moniker “The Painter of the Revolution.” Among his four paintings that adorn the United States Capitol rotunda, Trumbull’s Declaration of Independence (1817) holds a special place, serving as the reverse of the current United States two-dollar bill.

During his service in the American Revolutionary War, Trumbull rendered a unique service at Boston by meticulously sketching plans of the British and American lines and works. He also witnessed the pivotal Battle of Bunker Hill. Appointed second aide-de-camp to General George Washington, he later served as deputy adjutant general to General Horatio Gates in June 1776. However, a dispute over the dating of his officer commission led him to resign from the army in 1777.

In 1780, facing financial difficulties, Trumbull turned to art as a profession. Seeking inspiration, he embarked on a journey to London, where he had the privilege of meeting Benjamin Franklin. Under the guidance of Benjamin West, Trumbull honed his artistic skills. At West’s suggestion, Trumbull began painting small pictures of the American Revolutionary War and miniature portraits. Throughout his life, he created approximately 250 such portraits, showcasing his talent and dedication. Notably, during this period, he even painted the portrait of Washington from memory.

Andrew Kingsbury, born on April 24, 1759, at West Farms, was the son of Phebe French Kingsbury and Ephraim Kingsbury. He enlisted as a private soldier in June 1776 and was discharged with the Regiment in Salisbury, Pennsylvania, later that year. In 1777, Kingsbury reentered the service at Danbury, Connecticut, where he was transferred to the General and Hospital Department and served as a clerk until December 15, 1778. Subsequently, he was appointed Storekeeper, a position he held until 1781. In 1781, Kingsbury became a clerk in the office of Ralph Pomeroy, Esq., Deputy Quartermaster-General.

On January 14, 1783, Kingsbury married Mary Osborn, who passed away in 1848. They had five children together.

Kingsbury’s career took him to the Comptroller’s Office, where he served until 1791. He was then appointed Comptroller of Public Accounts, serving until 1793. In 1793, he was elected Treasurer of the State of Connecticut, a position he held until 1818. Additionally, Kingsbury served as Treasurer of the Connecticut Missionary Society in 1799 and Treasurer of Hartford Grammar School in 1806.

Andrew Kingsbury passed away on October 6, 1837, in Hartford, Connecticut.

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