Lot 709
Tyler, John. Partial autograph letter signed as President, one page, 6¾ x 7" (docket is datelined Washington, Mar. 4, 1844). Tyler writes to John L. Graham: "…period of gloom, and while expressions from numberless quarters are flowing in upon me. Very Respectfully yrs &c. John Tyler." On Feb. 28, 1844, President Tyler and various dignitaries took a cruise on the Potomac on the warship U.S.S. Princeton, the first steamer to be driven by a screw propeller, designed by Swedish engineer Erik Eriksson. On board was the world's largest naval gun, called the "Peacemaker"; it was fired twice and thrilled the party, but exploded on its third firing. President Tyler escaped injury only because he was below deck, but six people were killed, including his Secretary of State, Abel Upshur; Secretary of the Navy Thomas W. Gilmer; David Gardiner, father of Tyler's future wife; an American diplomat; a naval officer; and Tyler's black valet. Far left margin of recto and edges of verso show evidence of an earlier mounting, else fine.
Estimated Value $800 - 1,000.
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| Realized $1,020 |
