Legal Documents Concerning the Suit of Benedict Joseph vs. the United States, New York, 1834

Two handwritten legal documents from New York City, dated August 28 and 29, 1834, and December 26, 1834, detail a suit brought by Benedict Joseph against the United States Government. The case involves the alleged undervaluation of imported goods—72 telescopes, 20 gross of steel pens, and one gross of imitation quills—purchased by Joseph's mother in London, England. The documents include affidavits, witness lists, and information about the transfer of the case to Judge Samuel R. Betts' chambers. The documents offer a glimpse into 19th-century legal practices and international trade, with a focus on a Jewish merchant family's transatlantic business dealings. One document is three pages long (two sheets, both sides written on), while the other is a single page.

Associated People/Businesses

• Price, Williaim M.
• Joseph, Benedict
• Joseph, Benedict / Kursheedt, Alexander (1811-1884)

Geography

• New York City

Subjects

• Legal documents
• International trade
• Jewish merchants

Physical Location

Arc.MS.56, Box 3, Folder 12|Arc.MS.56, Box 3, Folder 12