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Autographed Documents & Free Franks of Important American Historical Figures

18TH CENTURY AUTOGRAPHS
Lot Symbol CatNo. Lot Description CV or Estimate
501   Hancock, John American patriot, statesman, and merchant (1737-93) as one of Bostons richest men, he largely financed the cause of liberty in Massachusetts as president of the Continental Congress, was the first to sign the Declaration of IndepHancock, John American patriot, statesman, and merchant (1737-93); as one of Boston's richest men, he largely financed the cause of liberty in Massachusetts; as president of the Continental Congress, was the first to sign the Declaration of Independence; with his bold, distinctive signature, his name has become synonymous with "autograph"; first Governor of Massachusetts. Very early Manuscript Document Signed "John Hancock" as a witness, 1-1/2 pages, legal folio, Boston, June 4, 1756. As the French and Indian War flared up to the south and west, Hancock witnesses an agreement in which "John Phillips jun:r of Boston...hath made over unto [John's uncle and business mentor] Thomas Hancock...sundry Vessells and Cargoes as Security for the payment of a sum of money he owes the said Thomas and a sum of money he owes Messrs. Kilby and Barnard...Whereas the Briganteen Abigaill burthened about One hundred tuns whereof John Atwood is at present Master now on her voyage to the bay of Hundoras...I...John Phillips Have and by these presents do fully authorize and empower the said Thomas Hancock...to Grant, sell and dispose of the said Briganteen and Cargoe upon her Arrival at Boston...toward discharging said debts..." Also signed by Phillips and by "Wm: Story" as well as notarized by a Justice of the Peace, Samuel Sewall. With embossed two-penny revenue stamp (ERP II) at upper left. Right edge well worn with some loss at edge of horizontal fold, not affecting signatures. Blank integral page detached but present, tipped to another sheet. Despite this, condition is quite Good and the document will display well. Thomas Hancock, a successful merchant, took on his nephew John after the death of the young man's father. A recent Harvard graduate in 1756, young Hancock was being trained to take over his uncle's business, which he would do when his uncle's health failed in the early 1760s. The Hancocks' contracts with the English government during the French and Indian War would vastly expand the family fortune. Ironically, that wealth would be spent to free Massachusetts and the other colonies from British rule. Moreover, the dispute that would finally lead to American independence began as a protest against taxes levied on the colonies by the British--in order to pay for the French and Indian War! (Image) Est. $3,000-4,000

SOLD for $7,000.00
Will close during Public Auction
502   Morris, Robert American patriot and financier (1734-1806) Signer of the Declaration of Independence called the financier of the Revolution for his efforts, as Superintendent of Finance, to raise funds for the fledgling republic and its ill-eqMorris, Robert American patriot and financier (1734-1806); Signer of the Declaration of Independence; called the "financier of the Revolution" for his efforts, as Superintendent of Finance, to raise funds for the fledgling republic and its ill-equipped armies; one of Pennsylvania's first two US Senators; his massive real estate speculations ruined him when the bubble burst, and he died a pauper. Exceptional association Autograph Postal Cover Franked "Robt. Morris" at lower left. Addressed in his hand to "The Hon'ble / John Hancock Esqr. / President of Congress / Baltimore". With the word "Free" written in another hand at upper right. Perhaps this should not have been franked, for Morris has also marked it "private" just above his signature! Matted with 8vo engraved portraits of Morris and Hancock, as well as biographical plaques, and contained under glass in an elaborate gilt wooden frame, overall size 27" x 22.5". Evidence of paper repair at left edge of cover, not affecting writing; folds, overall VG. The Continental Congress's presence in Baltimore allows us to date this cover between mid-December 1776 and late February 1777. In early December, the British had invaded New Jersey after driving George Washington's troops out of Brooklyn and Manhattan, raising fears that Philadelphia would be captured. After Washington's daring raids at Trenton and Princeton, the British crossed back over the Hudson to enter winter quarters, and Congress was able to return to its home in Philadelphia. (Image) Est. $500-750

SOLD for $1,500.00
Will close during Public Auction
503   Hillegas, Michael First Treasurer of the United States (1728-1804) his duties included those that would become the purview of the Secretary of the Treasury under the US Constitution, and he served until Alexander Hamilton became the first man toHillegas, Michael First Treasurer of the United States (1728-1804); his duties included those that would become the purview of the Secretary of the Treasury under the US Constitution, and he served until Alexander Hamilton became the first man to hold that office; used much of his personal wealth to help finance the Revolutionary War. Partly printed Document Signed "M. Hillegas" as United States Treasurer and by "Nath. Appleton," Commissioner of the Continental Loan-Office in the State of Massachusetts, 1 page, oblong 8vo, no place, October 1, 1781. A fourth bill of exchange for $36 or 180 livres tournois, interest on money borrowed by the young United States, payable to Thomas Chase. Note number 1139. Hillegas has crossed out "of Loans" in his imprinted title. Endorsed by Chase on verso. "United States 4" watermark in paper. Minor ink erosion where Hillegas has crossed through "of Loans," piece out at extreme lower right corner, not affecting document, otherwise VG. (Image) Est. $300-400

SOLD for $375.00
Will close during Public Auction
504   Washington, George First President of the United States (17323-1799, served 1789-97) commander of the Continental Army during the American Revolution considered the father of his country. Outstanding pair of covers concerning the Whiskey RebelWashington, George First President of the United States (1732/3-1799, served 1789-97); commander of the Continental Army during the American Revolution; considered the father of his country. Outstanding pair of covers concerning the Whiskey Rebellion, which flared up after the federal government levied an excise tax on whiskey. Farmers west of the Alleghenies routinely converted their bulky and perishable grain into whiskey, which could be more easily transported to eastern markets. Because the tax was charged per gallon for small producers, but as a flat rate for large distillers, it created an uneven burden on the farmers. In western Pennsylvania, the most settled and most easily reached region beyond the mountains, these men began protests reminiscent of those raised against the Stamp Act of 1765, which had ultimately led to the Revolution. This lot features a Postal Cover Franked "Go: Washington" as President and Commander-in-chief, no place or date. The cover is addressed in another hand to "Brigadier General [William] Irvine / Fort Pitt" and marked "public service" to distinguish it from a personal letter. President Washington signs at lower left. With nearly complete red seal on verso. Stain at top center, some foxing touching signature, usual fold wear, otherwise G/VG. A wonderfully large and bold signature. Undoubtedly this was written during the Whiskey Rebellion, when Irvine left his base at Carlisle, Pennsylvania and rode to Fort Pitt to negotiate with the insurgents. When his mission failed, Washington and Alexander Hamilton led a column of American regulars to join Irvine's militia. With a Postal Cover addressed to "Major General Wm. Irvine / Commanding the Penn. Line / - to be read by the Brigadier in advance & forwarded / Express, public service." Fold breaks repaired with matching paper on verso. VG. Undoubtedly this was a dispatch sent during the Whiskey Rebellion, when Irvine, previously a brigadier, was put in charge of the Pennsylvania militia and raised to the rank of major general. (Image) Est. $5,000-7,500

SOLD for $7,000.00
Will close during Public Auction
505   [Washington, George] Three scarce items surrounding the estate of the Father of his Country. Includes the Booklet The Last Will and Testament of General George Washington with a Schedule of his Property Directed to be Sold. Philadelphia, H.[Washington, George] Three scarce items surrounding the estate of the Father of his Country. Includes the Booklet "The Last Will and Testament of General George Washington with a Schedule of his Property Directed to be Sold." Philadelphia, H. Maxwell, 1800. 8vo, 26 pages, no wraps. Toned, several pages free of binding but all present. Overall about Good. On verso of title page is a printed certification by George Deneale, Clerk of Fairfax County Court. This edition is a printing of the will that we have not previously seen, and it may even be the very first to appear. With an interesting ALS John Gill," 1/4 page, 4to, Baltimore, October 16, 1800. Writing to the "Executors of the Late Genl. Washington" in Mt. Vernon, he writes, "I wrote you the 1st Inst. to which refer. The Goods are now here, & I wish to know how they are to be sent if you receive them - or in Case you do not receive them but take the Land, that you will be pleased to inform me, as the season for selling them will rapidly run by awaiting your reply." Overall toning, two holes not near text from animal visitation, stiffness and fold wear including partial fold splits. Still, overall G/VG. With DS by "Thos. Blackburn," 1 page, legal folio, Berkeley County, Virginia, March 13, 1801, giving power of attorney to Major Henry Gunnell of Fairfax County in order (according to the idiosyncratic spelling) to "receve Acartaine Legacy left to my Wife by the Last will and Testament of General George Washington of Three hundred Dollars her name Being mentioned in the said will Sally B. Haney now Sally B. Blackburne, and to bring Suits for the same". With three embossed ten-cent revenue stamps along left edge. With a September 21, 1801 court certification of the power of attorney. The original document is signed by three witnesses but not, interestingly enough, by Sally B. Blackburne! She is listed on page 12 of the will: "To Sally B. Haynie (a distant relation of mine) I give and bequeath three hundred Dollars." Edge wear, toning, partial fold separations, otherwise VG. (imagea) (Image) Est. $1,000-1,500

SOLD for $3,250.00
Will close during Public Auction
506   American Revolution: Arthur St. Clair Scottish-born American soldier (1737-1818) served in the French and Indian War, settling afterward in Pennsylvania a general in the American Revolution governor of the Northwest Territory his defeat againAmerican Revolution: Arthur St. Clair Scottish-born American soldier (1737-1818); served in the French and Indian War, settling afterward in Pennsylvania; a general in the American Revolution; governor of the Northwest Territory; his defeat against the Miami Indians in 1791 at the Battle of the Wabash was the worst ever suffered by American troops against Native Americans, and he resigned soon after. Autograph Cover Franked "Majr. Genl. St. Clair" at lower left and addressed to "General Irwine [sic] at Carlisle," Pennsylvania. Undated, but surely from the period 1790-91, during which St. Clair led the Northwest Territory that began just beyond the Pennsylvania border, and Irvine was settled at Carlisle. Silked. Fold wear, otherwise VG. There is a possibility that this dates from the time of the Whiskey Rebellion (when his former rank might be used as an honorific), but by then St. Clair had resigned his commission. (Image) Est. $400-500

SOLD for $300.00
Will close during Public Auction
507   Hamilton, Alexander American soldier and statesman (1755?-1804) first US Secretary of the Treasury during the Revolution, an aide to Gen. George Washington, forming a lifelong association one of the primary authors of the Federalist Papers inHamilton, Alexander American soldier and statesman (1755?-1804); first US Secretary of the Treasury; during the Revolution, an aide to Gen. George Washington, forming a lifelong association; one of the primary authors of the Federalist Papers in support of ratifying the US Constitution; leader of the High Federalists and political foe of both Jefferson and Adams; killed by Vice President Aaron Burr in an 1804 duel. Outstanding Quasi War-date Postal Cover Franked "A. Hamilton" as Major General in de facto command of the US Army, October 21, 1799. Addressed to James Miller, Assistant Quartermaster General, in Trenton, NJ. Postmarked in upper left, with "Paid" stamp at right, and the words "on public service" touching the tops of the tall letters "A," "H," and "l" in Hamilton's signature. Docketed at upper left. Near split at top edge fold, paper repairs on verso to vertical fold split, otherwise about VG. Although George Washington was commander in chief of the forces raised to prepare for a possible land war against the French, he arranged to have Hamilton named second in command. Since Washington was in no condition to leave Mount Vernon, the real leader of the army was Hamilton, much to the discomfort of President John Adams, who recognized Hamilton's military ambitions and feared he would become an American Napoleon. Consequently, Adams prevented the army from fully organizing while he sought a back-channel diplomatic solution to the country's disagreement with France. Despite a spirited naval conflict, peace was restored and Hamilton was returned to private life, but not before helping to ruin Adams's chance at re-election. This very example of Hamilton's autograph appears in legendary philographer Charles Hamilton's classic reference work American Autographs, on page 203 of volume I. (Image) Est. $750-1,000

SOLD for $1,050.00
Will close during Public Auction
19TH CENTURY AUTOGRAPHS
Lot Symbol CatNo. Lot Description CV or Estimate
508   Lee, Henry Lighthorse Harry American soldier and politician (1756-1813) served with distinction during the Revolutionary War, earning his sobriquet from his fine horsemanship later, Governor of Virginia father of Robert E. Lee. Partly printeLee, Henry "Lighthorse Harry" American soldier and politician (1756-1813); served with distinction during the Revolutionary War, earning his sobriquet from his fine horsemanship; later, Governor of Virginia; father of Robert E. Lee. Partly printed Document Signed "Henry Lee," 1 page, 4to, no place, October 24, 1799. A bond for "Eleven hundred and Twenty pounds Current Money of Virginia to be paid unto William Duval" with the condition that the obligation will be void if Lee pays "Five hundred and Sixty pounds...on or before the 23 Day of October 1803 with interest from Oct. 23 1802." Also signed by Duval. With 75-cent embossed revenue stamp at upper left (RM-246, Virginia) with image of an eagle holding a shield. On verso, reassigned by Duval to Robert Craig, but this has been crossed through and a second reassignment in 1804 has not been completed. Usual edge wear, overall VG (Image) Est. $300-400

SOLD for $675.00
Will close during Public Auction
509   Jefferson, Thomas Third President of the United States (1743-1826, served 1801-09) Vice President under John Adams first US Secretary of State made the Louisiana Purchase from Napoleon, doubling the nations size principal author of the DeclaJefferson, Thomas Third President of the United States (1743-1826, served 1801-09); Vice President under John Adams; first US Secretary of State; made the Louisiana Purchase from Napoleon, doubling the nation's size; principal author of the Declaration of Independence and one of its Signers. Manuscript Document Signed "Th: Jefferson" as President, 1 page, folio, on vellum, Washington, March 31, 1801. A land grant "in pursuance of an Act...passed on the third day of March 1795 entitled 'An Act to authorize a grant of lands to the French Inhabitants of Gallipolis'...there is granted to John Michau, a certain lot...containing two hundred and seventeen acres...in the plot of a tract of twenty four thousand acres...in the Territory North West of the River Ohio for the benefit of the French inhabitants and actual settlers in the Town..." Also signed by Acting Secretary of State (and simultaneously Attorney General) "Levi Lincoln;" James Madison would not take on his duties as Secretary of State until May 1. With four-dollar embossed revenue stamp on a paper ribbon attached at lower left, just to the left of the Seal of the United States. Soiled verso, with heavy fold wear including small splits at fold intersections; several small worm holes, minor fading of text, though signatures remain dark and clear; overall about Good. The "French 500" were aristocrats who had escaped the guillotine by emigrating to the United States. The Scioto Company had tricked them into purchasing land on the Ohio River that it did not actually own, describing the region as a paradise rather than the remote wilderness locale it actually was. The immigrants petitioned the US Congress and President George Washington, and proper titles were given to them for the land in the area. The name of the town, "Gallipolis," means "City of the Gauls". (Image) Est. $3,000-4,000

SOLD for $2,700.00
Will close during Public Auction
510   Burr, Aaron American soldier and politician (1756-1836) Vice President during Thomas Jeffersons first administration because the pair were voted on as a tandem, they tied in electoral votes at a time when the second runner-up became Vice PresiBurr, Aaron American soldier and politician (1756-1836); Vice President during Thomas Jefferson's first administration; because the pair were voted on as a tandem, they tied in electoral votes at a time when the second runner-up became Vice President; Burr lost much prestige by not quickly deferring to Jefferson, whom the voters intended to make President; he was ruined when he killed Alexander Hamilton in a duel in 1804; he subsequently intrigued to detach the western states from the Union, but treason was never proven. Choice Postal Cover Franked "A. Burr" as Vice President. Burr writes to his business associate Timothy Green in New York City, who has docketed the verso "A Billet from Aron Bur [sic] 27th Oct. / 1801". VG. Despite his dodgy reputation, Burr was uncommonly conscientious in fulfilling the vice president's one well-defined role as president of the Senate. (Image) Est. $500-750

SOLD for $650.00
Will close during Public Auction
511   Dearborn, Henry US Secretary of War under Thomas Jefferson (1751-1829) fought in the American Revolution and was the senior commander during the War of 1812. Good association Postal Cover Franked H. Dearborn as Secretary, Washington, pDearborn, Henry US Secretary of War under Thomas Jefferson (1751-1829); fought in the American Revolution and was the senior commander during the War of 1812. Good association Postal Cover Franked "H. Dearborn" as Secretary, Washington, postmarked January 2, 1802. Addressed by an amanuensis to former Secretary of War James McHenry in Baltimore. Docketed on verso. Large seal cut on folded verso. Seal tear at top affecting postmark, with partial Scotch tape repair, soiling touching signature, otherwise VG. (Image) Est. $200-300

SOLD for $180.00
Will close during Public Auction
512   Secretaries of the Treasury, 1801-29 [J. Adams - J.Q. Adams] A series of autographs of early Secretaries of the Treasury. Includes: Two Manuscript Letters Signed by Saml. Dexter, 12 page and 23 page, 4to, Washington, July 30, 1800 anSecretaries of the Treasury, 1801-29 [J. Adams - J.Q. Adams] A series of autographs of early Secretaries of the Treasury. Includes: Two Manuscript Letters Signed by "Saml. Dexter," 1/2 page and 2/3 page, 4to, Washington, July 30, 1800 and March 18, 1801. The first, written as Secretary of War, is to Thomas Perkins, sending a list (not present) of "Invalid Pensioners for the State of Massachusetts, with my warrant thereon..." The second letter, which has been inlaid to a slightly larger sheet, is as Secretary of the Treasury, to George Simpson, cashier of the Bank of the United States, with a very interesting request: "The Supervisor for the District of Virginia has Deposited in the Bank of Alexandria Notes of the several offices of Discount and Deposit to the amount of between sixty & seventy thousand...As these notes are refused to be received in payment of the Treasurers draughts, it will operate as an accomodation [sic] to this Department, if you would consent to receive them on deposit..." Archive tape reinforcements on verso of second letter. With good association LS "A.J. Dallas" as Secretary, 1/2 page, 4to, Washington, March 11, 1815. He writes to Albert Gallatin, US Minister Plenipotentiary in Paris, enclosing copies (not present) "of my communications with Mr. [John Quincy] Adams, Mr. [William H.] Crawford...relative to the sale of the Stock, which was sent to you by my Predecessor" [George W. Campbell]. VG. Gallatin, who with Adams had just negotiated the end of the War of 1812, had replaced Crawford as minister. Interestingly, Crawford would be Dallas's own replacement in the Treasury Department. With Signature "A.J. Dallas" clipped from the end of an official letter. With printed circular LS "Wm. H. Crawford," 1 page, 4to, Washington, May 7, 1817. Crawford sets out the rules for closer inspection of imports due to the prevalence of fraud to evade tariffs. With Autograph Postal Cover Franked "Treasury Dept / Wm. H. Crawford" at upper right. Addressed to William Hunter of Newport, RI. With "Free" stamp just below signature. Both VG. Also with LS and ADS "Saml. Meredith" as first US Treasurer, 1/2 page, 4to, and 1 page, narrow oblong 8vo, December 8, 1800 and May 8, 1795. The letter encloses $16,000 from the US Treasury to Jabez Bowen, Chief Justice of Rhode Island. The document is a payment from the Treasury to an undeciphered recipient in the amount of $30. Both are Good. (imagea) (imageb) (Image) Est. $500-750

SOLD for $525.00
Will close during Public Auction
513   Rush, Richard US Secretary of the Treasury under J.Q. Adams and US Attorney General under Madison and Monroe (1780-1859) acted as Secretary of State in the early days of Monroes administration US Minister to France helped establish the SmithsRush, Richard US Secretary of the Treasury under J.Q. Adams and US Attorney General under Madison and Monroe (1780-1859); acted as Secretary of State in the early days of Monroe's administration; US Minister to France; helped establish the Smithsonian Institution. Good content Autograph Letter Signed "Richard Rush," 2-1/2 pages, 8vo, Philadelphia, November 26, 1850. He sends his first cousin Mrs. Roach a letter from his late father, Signer of the Declaration of Independence Benjamin Rush (not present), assuring her that she has "not passed from my thoughts since we met at Rhineland." He thinks she will find the letter especially of interest "because of its ancient date, and because written to your aunt - my mother." Some fingerprints at top of first page, otherwise VG. (Image) Est. $300-400

SOLD for $280.00
Will close during Public Auction
514   Jackson, Andrew Seventh President of the United States (1767-1845, served 1829-37) an early leader in the West, becoming one of Tennessees first US Senators upon statehood a daring military commander, his stunning victory at New Orleans in JanJackson, Andrew Seventh President of the United States (1767-1845, served 1829-37); an early leader in the West, becoming one of Tennessee's first US Senators upon statehood; a daring military commander, his stunning victory at New Orleans in January 1815 made him a national hero; the first president who was called to office as the people's choice, he was also the last to have served in the Revolutionary War. Scarce early Autograph Document Signed "Andrew Jackson" while Justice of the Tennessee Supreme Court, 1 page, oblong 8vo, no place, July 24, 1801. He writes out and witnesses a promissory note on behalf of John Caffery and Thomas Harney, who promise "to pay unto Bowling Felts the Sum of Two Hundred Dollars on or before the Twenty fifth day of December Eighteen hundred and two it being for value received..." Embossed at left with second-issue 25-cent revenue stamp (RM-263) with a good impression of an American eagle holding a shield. Tipped gently to a slightly larger black sheet but easily removed. Fold wear including tiny hole at fold intersection, some spots of toning, otherwise VG. John Caffery was Jackson's brother-in-law, married to the sister of his wife, Rachel Donelson Jackson. Jackson treated his wife's family fully as his own, and would later help Caffery when the latter's farm was to be lost due to a debt. (Image) Est. $1,000-1,500

SOLD for $1,800.00
Will close during Public Auction
515   Jackson, Andrew Scarce early Autograph Document Signed Andrew Jackson as Justice of the Tennessee Supreme Court, 1 page, oblong 8vo, no place, July 24, 1801. He writes out and witnesses a promissory note on behalf of John Caffery and ThJackson, Andrew Scarce early Autograph Document Signed "Andrew Jackson" as Justice of the Tennessee Supreme Court, 1 page, oblong 8vo, no place, July 24, 1801. He writes out and witnesses a promissory note on behalf of John Caffery and Thomas Harney, who promise "to pay unto Bowling Felts the Sum of five hundred and forty six dollars on or before the first day of March Eighteen hundred and two with lawfull Interest...it being for value received..." The last five words quoted are inserted between lines, and Jackson testifies after the close of the document that they were added before it was signed. Embossed at left with second-issue 30-cent revenue stamp (RM-264) with a good impression of an American eagle holding a shield, and a wreath enclosing 13 stars. Fold wear including tiny hole at fold intersection, some toning, otherwise VG. Also witnessed by Joseph Davies. Undoubtedly written at the same time as the document in the preceding lot, since someone has worked out on the verso, in pencil, the total amount of the notes issued ($900), including the amounts of this document and the one in the previous lot. (Image) Est. $1,000-1,500

SOLD for $1,400.00
Will close during Public Auction
516   Jackson, Andrew, and Martin Van Buren Seventh and eighth Presidents of the United States Jackson, the man of the people who arose in the West, was well complemented by Van Buren, the New York political whiz when he chose him as his Secretary ofJackson, Andrew, and Martin Van Buren Seventh and eighth Presidents of the United States; Jackson, the man of the people who arose in the West, was well complemented by Van Buren, the New York political whiz when he chose him as his Secretary of State; ultimately Van Buren would become Jackson's Vice President and his successor. Choice partly engraved Document Signed "Andrew Jackson" as President and "M. Van Buren" as Secretary of state, 1 page, folio, on vellum, [Washington], December 30, 1830. A ship's passport for "the Ship John Howland of New Bedford [Massachusetts] Henry B. Gifford, master or commander of the burthen of 376 & 82/95 tons or thereabouts, mounted with no guns, navigated with twenty nine men..." Seal of the United States at lower left. Also signed by Lemuel Williams, Collector of New Bedford, with docket and certifications of the ship's later masters on verso. Folds, toned, otherwise VG. The distinctive scalloped top of this document was cut so that it could be matched with the top portion, which was retained by the collector of the port, to prove its authenticity. With their attractive vignettes, these are especially popular forms of early presidential autographs. With a large printed portrait of Jackson, and his biography. (Image) Est. $1,500-2,000

SOLD for $2,400.00
Will close during Public Auction
517   Woodbury, Levi Justice of the US Supreme Court (1789-1851, served from 1845) Secretary of the Treasury under Jackson and Van Buren Secretary of the Navy US Senator and Governor of New Hampshire. Choice group including two Autograph Letters SWoodbury, Levi Justice of the US Supreme Court (1789-1851, served from 1845); Secretary of the Treasury under Jackson and Van Buren; Secretary of the Navy; US Senator and Governor of New Hampshire. Choice group including two Autograph Letters Signed "Levi Woodbury," both as Secretary of the Treasury, 1-1/2 pages, 4to, Washington, December 21, 1834, and 1 page, 4to, Washington, November 8, 1840. The first letter, to Leon B. Parker of Boston, concerns a possible federal appointment for the recipient. Woodbury has shown his qualifications to President Jackson, and "considering my friendly relations to both candidates I have already informed the President, that it would be deemed a great favour if he would form his opinion...without consulting me." Glassine tape repairs to a fold separation causing staining through to first page, otherwise G/VG. In the second, just days after Van Buren's unsuccessful bid for re-election, he informs Edward Burke of New Hampshire that he has shown his letters of support to the President, who "is highly delighted at the firmness of the Granite State - so faithful among the faithless. Old Virginia is also awake once more. But Pennsylvania & New York have changed appearances so often we know not what to rely on. I feel prouder than ever of my native State - and know that from our northern fortress we can yet send out troops and energies, that will help to save the Republic - if not now - soon - very soon..." Mounting traces showing through at corners, toned strip along right edge, otherwise VG. Van Buren won New Hampshire and Virginia, but not the populous New York and Pennsylvania, once Republican strongholds that voted for the Whig William Henry Harrison. With two LS "Levi Woodbury" as Secretary, each 1 page, 4to, Washington, May 1, 1835, and July 21, 1837. The first is to US Marshal Benjamin Bonsall in Philadelphia, in response to his request for $8000 for court expenses. Woodbury sends $5000 because of "a balance...due from you to the U. States of $3656." The second letter is to D.W. Cove of Philadelphia, enclosing a letter (not present) explaining why the Treasury Department could not assist him without "difficulties and objections" and saying finally that "this Department will not be justified in interfering in your individual case...The certificates are accordingly herewith returned." Both VG. (Image) Est. $750-1,000

SOLD for $475.00
Will close during Public Auction
518   Secretaries of the Treasury, 1830-41 [Jackson - Van Buren] A choice group of autographs including Manuscript Letter Signed S.D. Ingham as Secretary, 23 page, 4to, Washington, October 2, 1830. He writes Nicholas Biddle, president of thSecretaries of the Treasury, 1830-41 [Jackson - Van Buren] A choice group of autographs including Manuscript Letter Signed "S.D. Ingham" as Secretary, 2/3 page, 4to, Washington, October 2, 1830. He writes Nicholas Biddle, president of the Bank of the United States, in Philadelphia: "I will thank you to inform me the names of the President & of the Officers of the Bank of the United States at Burlington and Utica". Fold wear including partial separations, overall G/VG. With ALS"Louis McLane" as Secretary of State, 3-1/2 pages, 4to, Washington, June 30, 1834. To Edward [Bird?], he says he is pleased "that the mode of my retirement from office commands your approbation. I have always entertained great doubts whether the public mind is in a state to appreciate a dignified [resignation] to preserve one's pride." He will not be one of those "party men" who feel "an obligation to submit to any means for the attainment of party ends" and "will not pardon a different feeling in any of its members." Leaving is his duty to "my character, to my past relations with the P. [i.e., Andrew Jackson], and to the character of the country..." Lightly toned, VG. McLane had resigned as Secretary of the Treasury due to differences with President Jackson over the Second Bank of the United States, which the president refused to re-charter. In compensation, Jackson named him Secretary of State, but Vice President Martin Van Buren interfered with McLane's duties and he resigned that post as well. The dispute ruined their long friendship, and there can be little doubt that Van Buren is the "party man" to whom McLane alludes. With an LS "Louis McLane" as Secretary of the Treasury, February 19, 1833, to the Collector of Customs at Newport, extending a deadline. VG. With ALS "W.J. Duane," 2/3 page, 4to, Philadelphia, February 28, 1837. He encloses a letter (not present) by DeWitt Clinton to one of the latter's admirers. Duane says Clinton was "one who was an ornament not merely to his country but to the human race. The circumstance, that I possessed the friendship of DeWitt Clinton, is one upon which I shall ever dwell with pride and delight." Some stray stains, page hinge reinforced on verso, clipping tipped to blank integral sheet, otherwise VG. With LS "W.J. Duane" as Secretary, 1/3 page, 4to, Washington, June 28, 1833. He writes Thomas Culbreth, Clerk of the Executive Council in Annapolis to inform him that he must receipt his account for copies of correspondence before the department can pay it. VG. With LS as Secretary by future Chief Justice "R.B. Taney," 1 page, 4to, Washington, May 30, 1834. He writes S.Y. Mason of Detroit that he has no appropriation for his salary due to a Senate budget deadlock, but "the amount due will be transmitted to you in a draft on the Bank of Michigan..." Paper repairs at folds on verso, otherwise VG. With LS "Levi Woodbury" as Secretary, 2/3 page, 4to, Washington, May 27, 1835. He writes US Marshal Bonsall in Philadelphia that since the Department has remitted a forfeiture without costs, "you will be pleased to pay the same as taxed by the clerk of the District Court, being $7.45..." VG. Finally, with a DS Levi Woodbury" as Secretary, 1 page, legal folio, affixing the Seal of the Treasury to a document copy signed by Register Thomas L. Smith, May 16, 1840. Mildew and soiling along left edge, otherwise Good. (imagea) (Image) Est. $750-1,000

SOLD for $425.00
Will close during Public Auction
519   Ewing, Thomas American politician (1789-1871) US Secretary of the Treasury first US Secretary of the Interior earlier, a US Senator from Ohio foster father and later father-in-law of William T. Sherman. Manuscript Letter Signed T. EwinEwing, Thomas American politician (1789-1871); US Secretary of the Treasury; first US Secretary of the Interior; earlier, a US Senator from Ohio; foster father and later father-in-law of William T. Sherman. Manuscript Letter Signed "T. Ewing" as Secretary of the Treasury, 1 page, 4to, Washington, August 3, 1841. To N.F. Williams, Collector at Baltimore, he sends orders (not present) "to the Captain and First Lieutenant of the Revenue Cutter under your supervision...The vessel is to be withdrawn from her usual operations and placed under the orders of the Navy Department..." With and ALS "T. Ewing" as Secretary of the Interior, 1 page, 4to, Washington, March 8, 1849. In response to a letter from Francis O.I. Smith, he responds that "I concur entirely in your views. No one will have cause to complain of the present [Zachary Taylor] administration on the subjects which you name. It will be several weeks before a question of removal will be CONSIDERED unless it be in some case of glaring misconduct or incompetency. Mr. [Jacob] Collamer is as you know P[ost] M[aster] G[eneral]. Still your letter to me on the subject of the Portland Post Office is not misapplied..." Discolorations including tape marks on first letter; second letter with partial mounting strip on verso, otherwise both VG. (imagea) (Image) Est. $300-400

SOLD for $160.00
Will close during Public Auction
520   Dallas, George M. American jurist, diplomat, and politician (1792-1864) US Senator from Pennsylvania Vice President under James K. Polk US Minister to the UK and to Russia. Early Autograph Letter Signed G.M. Dallas, 13 page, 4to, PhDallas, George M. American jurist, diplomat, and politician (1792-1864); US Senator from Pennsylvania; Vice President under James K. Polk; US Minister to the UK and to Russia. Early Autograph Letter Signed "G.M. Dallas," 1/3 page, 4to, Philadelphia, November 21, 1825. He writes Pennsylvania Auditor General David Mann in Harrisburg, "The Sureties, on the bond of Joseph Bird, late Treasurer of this county, were Joseph Hart Grazier, of the Northern Liberties, and Benjamin Martin of Southwark. The former is, I believe, a substantial man; the latter is insolvent." Both Southwark and Northern Liberties were neighborhoods that have long since become part of Philadelphia proper. Seal tear affecting right edge, one fold beginning to separate at right edge, otherwise VG. At the time of this letter, the young Dallas was already a prominent lawyer who had been in London and St. Petersburg as the private secretary to Albert Gallatin during the War of 1812. He led the state faction that opposed future President James Buchanan and would be elected mayor of Philadelphia by them in 1828. From that post he would become a district attorney and then Attorney General of Pennsylvania. There is some debate whether Dallas, Texas was named for Vice President Dallas; it is also possible that it was named for his father, a Secretary of the Treasury, or his brother, a commodore in the US Navy. Secretary of the Treasury, or his brother, a commodore in the US Navy. (Image) Est. $300-400

SOLD for $140.00
Will close during Public Auction

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