Lot 119
Grant, Ulysses S. The Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA) was established in 1824 as part of the War Department (a rather telling fact). In 1849, the bureau became an agency of the Department of the Interior and maintained strong control over the lives and property of reservation Indians. From 1866 to 1891 the United States Army fought a continuous war against the many Indian tribes of the Mid and Southwest which had not yet been herded onto small reservations overseen by the scandalously corrupt Bureau. With this appointment, Grant undoubtedly hoped to bring a more humane, more tolerant leadership to the BIA. Letter shows minor age-toning, along the edges of the first page recto, else quite choice. The two-sided letter is matted and framed with hooks, together with a steel engraving of Grant, and a bronze plaque; all on a linen background and framed to an overall size of 16 x 25". 18th President of the United States, 1869-1877.
Autograph Letter Signed as President. Two pages, recto and verso, Octavo, on Executive Mansion letterhead, Washington D.C., November 4, 1875.
President Grant caves in to public presssure, and attempts to replace the current head of the Bureau of Indian Affairs. He writes to Oliver Hoyt of Stamford, Connecticut, a wealthy leather merchant, state Senator, liberal patron of missionary and educational programs, and devoted admirer of Grant. In full:
"Dear Sir: both the new Sec. of the Int. and myself believe that public opinion demands a change of the present Commissioner of Indian Affairs, and I feel disposed, in this instance, to listen to its demand. I will state however that my confidence in the integrity and zeal of the present incumbent is not in the least degree shaken. But I think a change will conserve the public interest. So much by way of prelude. The real object in my writing to you now is to ask if you will accept the position. It is one of considerable labor and responsibility, but at the same time it is a position where a person may do a great deal of good. I hope you will see your way clear to accept it. May I ask an early reply to this, and ask at the same time that you do not communicate the substance of this until a commissioner is appointed if you should decline.
With high regard, You obt. svt.
U. S. Grant".
Estimated Value $2,500-UP.
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