Ellery, William, 1727-1820 [The Lancaster pocket almanack, for the year 1778. Being the third year of American Independency. Inscribed by William Ellery].

Title continues: "and the neighbouring states; containing a variety of useful lists and tables." Signed on the cover with his title: "Lancaster Almanack for 1778." Includes 24 blank pages for notes, which Ellery has filled with diary, notes, and some accounts while serving as a Member of the Continental Congress. He purchased the book in late 1777, possibly after Congress fled to Lancaster to escape the British occupation of Philadelphia. The diary discusses Congress' July 4 celebration, the British evacuation of Philadelphia, the Battle of Monmouth, Franklin's arrival at the French court, and the arrival of the Treaty of Amity. There are lists of law books and mention of the Iroquois Indian Confederation. Inside the front cover Ellery copies verses on George III and Benjamin Franklin. A Member of the Continental Congress from 1776 until 1785, William Ellery was a signer of the Declaration of Independence. Evans 15580.