A leading patriot during the Revolutionary War and the first governor of New Hampshire, Josiah Bartlett (1729-95) left an indelible mark on New England history. Bartlett was also a militia officer, one of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, and twice a delegate to the Continental Congress. In addition to his political and military exploits, he practiced as a physician in Kingston, New Hampshire, for several years.

Many of his personal papers relate to his time in Philadelphia as a Congressional delegate. Included are letters from government officials and citizens of New Hampshire regarding shipbuilding, the raising and outfitting of troops, and local matters that required Bartlett's guidance as a national delegate.