17th-century documents are slightly more common in Special Collections than their 16th-century counterparts. During this period, some of the more recognizable and legible hands—the Round Hand and the Running Hand—began to emerge.
Published by John Ayres of London, England in 1698, A Tutor to Penmanship shows the development of distinct hands, many of which will appear more familiar to modern readers. Ayers's volume was intended as an instruction tool for secretaries, clerks, and laymen alike, making it the perfect tool for decoding 17th-century handwriting.
Written in 1692 by Daniel Eames of Boxford, Massachusetts, this petition contains Eames's appeal for release from jail. Eames was imprisoned as an accused witch during the infamous Salem Witch Trails, but was released so that he could provide for his wife and children.