Lot 542
Arthur, Chester A (1830-1886) 21st President of the United States (1881-1885). Autograph letter signed ("C.A. Arthur"), one page, 82 Nassau St. (New York City), July 22, 1871. To Jas. Terwilliger Esq: "I hope there will be no unnecessary delay in the appointment of Mr. Cox which has been a long time promised. Fine. Arthur is scarce in autograph letters signed.
Arthur entered politics as the protégé of Roscoe Conkling, the corrupt leader of the New York City Republican political machine. At Conkling's urging, Arthur was appointed Collector of the Port of New York by President Grant, but was fired by President Hayes in 1878 on suspicion of corruption and patronage. He was nominated for Vice President in 1880 in the hope of conciliating the followers of Grant and the New York machine. When he unexpectedly became President upon Garfield's assassination, Arthur turned over a new leaf and backed civil service reform, reorganized the Cabinet, and prosecuted political associates accused of post office graft.
Estimated Value $600 - 800.
Joseph L. Baldwin Collection; purchased from Edward N. Bomsey, December 18, 1992.
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| Realized $1,020 |
