Lot 262
Garfield, James A (1831-1881) 20th president of the U.S. (March-Sept., 1881). He served in the Union army until 1863, when he became a Republican member of the U.S. House of Representatives, and followed his party's radical Reconstruction program. Elected president in 1880, he declared war on the leading faction of his party by appointing James G. Blaine secretary of state (passing over the "Stalwarts" of the influential Roscoe Conkling); won a victory with his appointment for port collector of New York; and began prosecution of frauds in the U.S. postal service. On July 2, 1881, he was shot by a disappointed office seeker, Charles J. Guiteau. Garfield died Sept. 19 and was succeeded by Vice President Chester A. Arthur.
Endorsement Signed ("R.A.G"). One page, recto and verso, Washington DC, March 9, 1881. On Executive Mansion letterhead. The endorsement is on an Autograph Letter Signed by Ambrose Burnside, written only five days into Garfield's Presidency. Garfield signs in purple pencil. A few light pencil notations, reinforcing tape to right edge verso, scattered minor surface soil. Fine.
Any Garfield Presidential document is rare and this piece, from so early in his term, presents a wonderful opportunity. Garfield endorses the appointment of Le Barron B. Colt "…as District Judge of Rhode Island…Mr. Colt is the choice of the entire delegation here." Garfield's endorsement in full "Make out the appt of Mr. Colt -- J.A.G.".
Estimated Value $5,000 - 6,000.
|
| |
| Unsold |
