1831 Handwritten Danville Labor and Colt Receipt John Hills to David Mitchell

Original 1831 handwritten labor receipt recording an agreement between John Hills and David Mitchell in Danville (unknown state). The document confirms that Hills agreed to work for Mitchell for five months starting April 25, 1831, and acknowledges receipt of $14.50 for previous winter work. An exception is made for wintering a suckling colt, which was not included in the payment. Dated May 3, 1831 and signed by John Hills. A rare and detailed example of early 19th-century rural labor contracts with references to agricultural work and livestock.

Full transcription:
“This certifies that I have let myself to David Mitchell commencing April twenty fifth I am to work five months from that date and one day’s work Smith Knights demand of $14.50 which is in full for work done in the winter previous and for ——— with the exception of wintering one suckling colt.

Danville May 3, 1831
[Signed] John Hills”

Reverse side marked “John Mitchell, Rec’d 1831.”

– Date: May 3, 1831
– Location: Danville (state unspecified)
– Format: Single handwritten sheet, front and back
– Dimensions: Approx. 3.75″ tall by 8.25″ wide