 | ||
| ANDREW JACKSON (1767-1845) Seventh President of the
U.S., nicknamed 'Old Hickory', member of the House of Representatives from Tenn.,
governor of Florida. His administration known for introduction of Spoils System,
veto renewal of National Banks Charter, nullification issue with South Carolina
and Westward Expansion. ALS, 1p., 4to., on vellum, Hermitage, Nashville, TN, December 4, 1844. Jackson responds to Mr. James Lucas of Kennsington, Philadelphia, to his what seems, a somewhat unusual request. "I have received...your request for a lock of hair and my autograph on this parchment which he has enclosed to me. Although, greatly afflicted and much debilitated so much so that I am scarcely able to write...I have complied with your request. The lock of hair you will find enclosed (not included). Respectfully yours, Andrew Jackson". Although this request may seem unique the collecting of hair of famous people is still a popular hobby. Jackson who within his life time was considered one of the greatest American heroes died the same year in which Texas was annexed to the United States, marking the close of a political era. Until the early 1860's the Calhoun element in the Democratic Party became more dominant. This letter was written 6 months prior to Jackson's death, his words give evidence of his failing health, but this request is evidence of his continued popularity in the public eye. Due to the nature if vellum the ink does not adhere as it would to paper although quite attractive and fine. Signature bold. (#PVP1116) | ||
| view image | $1,750.00 | |
| ANDREW JACKSON (1767-1845) Seventh U.S. President, member U.S. House of
Representatives, Judge Tennessee Supreme Court at time of writing. ADS, signed twice, 2pp. large folio, State of Tennessee, February 4, 1804, on verso of handwritten document, an indenture describing a land transaction between William Donelson and William Harder. On verso Jackson holograph legal text reads in full: "State of Tennessee, On this Twenty fourth day of February Eighteen hundred and four personally came William Donelson the within named before me Andrew Jackson one of the Judges of the Superior Courts of law and Equity for the State, aforesaid and acknowledged the due execution of the written instrument of writing as his act and Deed for the use and purpose expressed and requested that the same might be registered. Let it be registered accordingly. Andrew Jackson." Donelson may well have been a relative to Jackson through marriage as he later married Rachel Donelson of Nashville. Very good. (#PVP1117) | ||
| view image | $2,800.00 | |
| ANDREW JACKSON
(1767-1845) Seventh U.S. President, member U.S. House of Representatives, Judge Tennessee
Supreme Court at time of writing. DS, 1p., as President,17 x 14 Washington, March 3, 1831. Ornate Military commission appointing Charles H. Davis to the position of Lieutenant in The Navy. The document is illustrated with vignettes of a soaring eagle on the top portion and the lower portion is decorated with naval implements including harpoons, cannons, buoys, anchors and flags. The seal is intact and boldly displayed in the bottom center of the document. This handsome piece is counter signed by John Branch the Secretary of the Navy. Item is matted in ivory and framed in a gold. It is framed to measure 23 1/2 x 19 1/2. In excellent condition. (#PVP1118) | ||
| view image | $2,500.00 | |
| THOMAS JEFFERSON (1743-1826) Third President of the United States, wrote the first draft of the Declaration of Independence. Chaired the
committee that presented draft to Congress and signed same. ALS, as President, in the third person "Tho. Jefferson" in the text, 1 p., oblong 8vo.
(Washington), Dec. 6,1805. The text is an invitation to dinner to US Senator Dr. Samuel Latham Mitchill (1764-1831) "Tho. Jefferson requests the
favour of Dr. Mitchill to dine with him on Monday the 9th instant, dinner will be on the table precisely at sun set Dec 6, 1805, The favour of an answer
is asked." Docketed by Mitchill on integral leaf "Th Jefferson rec'd Decr 6 & answd affirmatively same day 1805. Company present
Melimelli the Envoy from Tunis & his two Secretaries & Messrs Smith, Logan and (John Quincy) Adams of the Senate with Messrs Eppes, T&J
Randolph & Nicholson of the H of R." At the time of this letter U.S. merchant ships were increasingly attacked by pirates from the Barbary Coast of North Africa. The US refused to pay the North African rulers in return for a guarantee of protection. After 4 years of war Commodore John Rodgers negotiated a peace treaty, signed on June 4,1805. The best account of the actual dinner comes from the diary of John Quincy Adams (1767-1848), who was also a guest at the dinner mentioned in this invitation. On Dec 9, 1805 in his diary he writes, "Attended in Senate, where a voluminous communication of documents receive from the President was read... I dined at the President's in company with the Tunisian Ambassador and his two secretaries...dinner was to have been on the table precisely at sunset--it being in the midst of Ramadan, during which Turks fast while the sun is above the Horizon..." A significant piece of history, initiating negotiations for laying a foundation of peace with North Africa. Beautifully matted in maroon and framed in ornate gilt frame, with an engraving of Jefferson. A very handsome piece. (#PVP1119) | ||
| view image | $5,750.00 | |
 ANDREW JOHNSON (1808-1875) 17th President of the United states succeeded to the presidency upon death of Lincoln, Union
Brigadier General and Governor of Tennessee.DS, 1 pg., folio, July 31, 1862. Handsome ornate, civil war date document appointing Joseph H Hornback as First Lieutenant Company E, in the First Regiment Middle Tennessee Cavalry of the force of Tennessee Volunteers. Countersigned by Edward Everett (1794-1865) famous orator and statesman while Secretary of State of Tennessee. In excellent condition. (#PVP) | ||
| view image | $1,100.00 | |
| JOHN F. KENNEDY
(1917-1963) Thirty fifth President of the Unites States. Kennedy faced down Nakita S. Khrushchev, Soviet Prime
Minister and First Secretary of the Communist Party. During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, Kennedy reinvigorated
NASA and signed the Nuclear Test Ban Treaty. Kennedy's own personal copy of his work The Strategy of Peace, paperback edition, Harper & Bros., New York, 1960,
Signed "Best wishes John Kennedy", on the front page, (Moffett Naval Air Field, Mountain View , California,
November 2, 1960). This item's history is well documented in the form of a letter of provenance and several copies of
newspaper clippings. The letter of provenance accompanying the book describes the circumstances of its acquisition.
The book was obtained onboard Senator Kennedy's plane at Moffett Navel Air Field in Mountain View, California on
November 2, 1960 six days before Kennedy won the election. A charity organization, seeking hats of famous people for
an auction was allowed access to Kennedy's plane, Kennedy did not have a hat so instead he signed the book for them. Signed on the half title page. The book also contains five pages upon which Kennedy has written several words, made many
notations and has amended text, concerning his feelings about Russia, Nikita Khrushchev and arms control. Perhaps
using it as a reference in preparation of a speech during his months on the campaign trail. On November 2, 1960
Kennedy addressed 30,000 supporters at the Cow Palace in San Francisco and first proposed the establishment of the
Peace Corp. On January 20, 1961 in his inaugural address Kennedy further alluded to Russian relations and arms
control. Two chips at lower corner of cover, lightly rubbed at spine cover is worn and slightly curled. Sold with letter of provenance and related newspaper clippings. A spectacular collectable and an amazing compilation of Kennedy material with notes relating to one of the more historically significant issues of the Kennedy era. (#PVP) | ||
| view image | $3250.00 | |
| JOHN F. KENNEDY (1917-1963)
Thirty-fifth President of the United States.
Naval officer in WWII, member U.S. House of Representatives, and Senator from MA.
His administration known for Bay of Pigs invasion, handling Cuban Missile Crisis,
Nuclear Test Ban Treaty and the Peace Corps. He won Pulitzer Prize for Literature
in 1956 for Profiles in Courage. Our nation still mourns his death by assassination in Dallas on Nov. 22nd. SP, as President, 1p., 7 1/2 x 7 3/4", [Hyde Park, Nov. 12 or 13, 1962]. This inscribed photograph of JFK accompanied by Eleanor Roosevelt & staff was taken during a visit to Hyde Park in 1960. The photograph depicts Eleanor Roosevelt gently leading Kennedy by the arm while members of her staff, Lester Entrup (long time handyman), his wife Marge and an another woman look on, all seemingly in awe. Kennedy signs and inscribes the photograph, "For Marge & Lester Entrup, with best wishes John F. Kennedy". This photograph represents a story, the unfolding of the fabulous fate of association between Eleanor Roosevelt and the campaigning Kennedy. Originally, this photo was taken while Kennedy was on a visit to Hyde park in 1960; Kennedy was probably seeking support from the politically influential woman. Prior to this visit, Eleanor Roosevelt, who had been a strong supporter of Adlai Stevenson, had not used her considerable influence on Kennedy's behalf. '"Privately she withheld active support for the nominee until the two met in Hyde Park and she was assured that he intended to make the best possible use of men like Stevenson and Chester Bowles. Kennedy came away from his meeting absolutely smitten with this woman' according to William Walton, his New York coordinator, who accompanied him. She [Eleanor] agreed to do whatever he wanted in the campaign. She spoke in New York, which was one of the decisive states. She praised him in her column. She proffered advice--through Franklin Jr. and by letter--cautioning him on his declared policy toward Cuba and warning him against 'last minute' tricks by Richard Nixon."'1 After this meeting, Kennedy and Roosevelt's relationship developed and would withstand time and fame. Eleanor Roosevelt died on Nov. 7, 1962, while attending her funeral, Kennedy had occasion to meet the Entrups again. At this occasion he inscribed and signed the photograph previously taken with Marge Entrup, Eleanor's cook and her husband Lester. 1Joseph P. Lash, Life Was Meant to be Lived; A Centenary Portrait of Eleanor Roosevelt. Cite page 187. An additional photograph of their meeting is depicted on page 186. On page 196 appears a photograph of dignitaries including John and Jackie Kennedy at the funeral, when the photo described was signed. A superb photo with spectacular association. Three slight creases and slight smudging to the word "wishes" book is included with package. Excellent. (#PVP1120) | ||
| view image | $4,500.00 | |
| JAMES MADISON
ALS 1 page, 4 to., Washington, Oct 31, 1807. While serving as Jefferson's Secretary of State
Madison writes to an unknown recipient. "I have received your favor to the 30th and thank you for your attention to the
articles expressed to me from Lisbon. Having no invoice of them, I must ask the favor of you to proceed according to the
rules in such cases, and to let me know the amount which is to be remitted; forwarding them to this place by the first
oppor. that may be convenient. As the articles for the President and others are all addressed to me it will be best to
let all the duties etc to be included with mine, and the articles sent to me also." Interestingly Madison refers to articles expressed to him from Lisbon, Spain. This letter is written during a very trying period in the US's history, and international trade was the issue. In June of 1807, the Chesapeake-Leopard affair occurred (impressing British deserters). On October 17, in spite of Jefferson's protest the British government announced it would continue its policy of impressing seamen on American ships who were thought to be British deserters. At the same time France and Britain were refusing to recognize US's neutral rights at sea and continued to hamper its commercial trade. This led to Jefferson's 1807 Embargo Act. These early incidents also played a critical role in the advancement of the cause of the War of 1812. Silked on verso, split at folds with some paper loss. (#PVP) | ||
| view image | $1,750.00 | |
| JAMES MADISON (1751-1836) Free frank on address leaf measuring 5 X
3", made from a folded 7 1/2 x 4 1/2" sheet, Orange County CH, Aug. 29th
(n.y.). A holograph leaf signed "Free James Madison" addressed to "General Henry
A.S. Dearborn, Boston". The return address is Orange Court House. Henry A.S. Deerborn, the son of the famed revolutionary Henry Deerborn, was brigadier general of militia commanding Boston Harbor. Appointed to collector of the port of Boston when his father Henry Deerborn assumed command of the Northern Army in 1812, Deerborn became a general in 1812. The same year as Madison became president he retained that position until 1829. Possibly dating this signature, as President, or later. On left margin in another hand in ink is written "No. 4, signature President United States", not near Madison's holograph nor effecting fine appearance. Excellent. (#PVP1121) | ||
| view image | $850.00 | |
| JAMES MONROE
(1758-1831) Fifth President of US , served in the American Revolution , member Continental Congress, US
minister to France and England. One of the negotiators of the Louisiana Purchase, governor of Virginia, US Secretary of
State. DS, as President, 1p., 9 1/2 x 13" oblong, on vellum, City of Washington, January 12, 1818. This ornate certificate Land Office Warrant # 5447, "In pursuance of the Acts of Congress appropriating and granting Land to the late Army of the United States passed on and since the sixth day of May 1812, grants to Eliza Allison, said guardian in the trust for the said children of the said John Bowers dec'd late a private in the Harrisbury Company of the thirty eighth Regiment of Infantry." This grant is for one hundred sixty acres, countersigned by Josiah Meigs. As payment for service in the Army many soldiers were granted land. This more unusual format of land grant, with vignette of justice offering a paper to a formally dressed soldier, is more uncommon, and more attractive than other land grants. This piece is in good condition with some aging and wear, usual folds. Signature as is good, seal is intact. (#PVP1132) | ||
| view image | $600.00 | |
|
FRANKLIN D(elano) ROOSEVELT (1882-1945)
The 32nd President of the United States. The first and only president elected to a fourth term, assistant
secretary of the Navy, governor of New York, established nations first state relief agency. With his assembly of advisors
"the Brain Trust" he established legislative reforms known as the New Deal. He changed the process of government as it was
known to include such overseeing agencies as the Public Works Commission and Security and Exchange Commission. Declared war
on Japan in 1941. TLS, 1p., 4 to., on letterhead of the Senate of the State of New York, Albany March 12, 1913. Roosevelt responds to Ms. Dinsmore of Sraatsburg NY's inquiry. "I am expecting to go to Washington as Assistant Secretary of the Navy and of course will not be able to do anything about the Post Mastership at Staatsburg. I do not know what will be done in Mr. Hughes' case but I rather imagine that those in power will want a Democrat put in. On March 4th of this same year Woodrow Wilson was inaugurated. Josephus Daniels, Wilson's new secretary of the navy offered Roosevelt, then a young legislator a job as assistant secretary of the navy. TR had held the same position 15 years earlier. Accepting Daniels' offer, Roosevelt moved to Washington in 1913. FDR's years of service as assistant secretary gave him administrative experience and a host of contacts in Washington and the Democratic party that help insure his successful political future. Fine association and insight into Roosevelt's promising political career. (#PVP) | ||
| view image | $875.00 | |
|
THEODORE ROOSEVELT (1858-1919) /
EDITH KERMIT ROOSEVELT (1861-1948) Twenty-sixth United States President, organized
and served in the first volunteer cavalry, the Rough Riders. Assistant U.S. Secretary of the Navy, V.P. under McKinley,
succeeded to presidency upon his death. Politically progressive, Roosevelt made famous the quote 'Speak softly and carry
a big stick.' Signatures on one 4 1/2 x 3 1/2" sheet, pulled from an autograph album. One can assume, although not confirm, this signature of Roosevelt is as President due to the date on the signature on the verso, which is ANDREW D. WHITE (1832-1918) American educator and diplomat, Chartered and began Cornell University, President of that University, who writes an altruistic aphorism, "Today is the disciple of yesterday-tomorrow today" dated September 21, 1903. Two fine samples. Excellent. (#PVP1122) | ||
| view image | $550.00 | |
|
THEODORE ROOSEVELT (1858-1919) Twenty-sixth United States President.
TLS, as President, 1p., 4to., The White House, Washington, January 31, 1909.
Roosevelt corresponds with Olympic hero James Connolly. In response to letters
he received regarding Connolly's heroic deeds during a disaster at sea aboard the
Republic Sea Borne. "I have just made public a couple of letters that were sent to me about your actions, which gave me the utmost pleasure. Evidently you behaved with cool courage..." Connelly has written in the margins, in pencil, details of the events leading to his receipt of this letter. Comes with envelope. Regular folds. Very good. (#PVP1123) | ||
| view image | $700.00 | |
|
THEODORE ROOSEVELT (1858-1919) Twenty-sixth United States President.
TLS, as President, 1p., 4to., The White House, Washington, January 31, 1909.
Roosevelt writes to Jacob A. Rils. "I have your letter of the 12th and read your article...I was delighted with it. It won't be long before I see you now. Ever yours..." Corrections in Roosevelt's hand appear in black marker. Framed to measure 8 x 11 inches, and matted with a black and white oval image of Roosevelt. Very good, elegant presentation. (#PVP1124) | ||
| view image | $800.00 | |
| WILLIAM H. TAFT (1857-1903) Twenty-seventh US President,
attorney from Ohio, judge Ohio superior court, US secretary of war under T.
Roosevelt, professor of law at Yale 1913-1921. Chief justice US Supreme Court. TLS, "Wm H.T.", 1p., 4to., Department of Justice, Office of the Solicitor General, Washington DC, February 8, 1892. A letter discussing Senate business, the Wood Case and the hopes of reaching a conclusion. The solicitor general acts as court lawyer for the United States and argues all cases where the government is involved. His responsibilities include handling all of the attorney general's responsibilities if he is unable to perform his duties. (#PVP1125) | ||
| view image | $195.00 | |
| WILLIAM HOWARD TAFT
(1857-1930) Twenty-seventh US President, attorney from Ohio, judge Ohio Superior Court, US
secretary of war under Theodore Roosevelt, professor of law at Yale, Chief Justice US Supreme Court. Partly printed DS, "Wm H. Taft", 1 p., 8 1/2 X 3 inches, oblong. New Haven, Conn. November 13, 1917. Document is check # 3913, made out to Joseph Chadwick for Six and 00/100 dollars. The check is drawn from the personal account of William H. Taft at the Second National Bank in Connecticut. It is well known that Taft's greatest love was the practice of law. This check was signed by Taft while a professor at Yale. A fine check, usual perforated cancellations, not affecting signature. Fine. (#PVP1133) | ||
| view image | $450.00 | |
| ZACHARY TAYLOR (1784-1850) Twelfth United States
President, nicknamed "Old Rough and Ready", famed Indian fighter and victorious Mexican War general. He died in
office after serving only 15 months as President, thus material signed as President is considered scarce. Signature, "Z. Taylor Commanding", on 1" x 2" sheet, glued to a larger 2" x 3" sheet. n.p., n.d. Comes with antique engraving from 1861 which has a facsimile signature on border. A fine piece for framing. (#PVP1126) | ||
| view image | $775.00 | |
| HARRY S. TRUMAN
(1884-1972) Thirty third president of the United States of America, artillery officer in WWI, U.S. senator,
vice president, succeeded to presidency at the death of F.D.R. in April of 1945. Ordered bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki,
his administration known for NATO in 1949, Central Intelligence Agency, Four Points Program and US direct engagement in Korean War. SP, 17 x 12", August 25, 1950 ( Washington, 1950). A striking Harris and Ewing, black and whit photograph of the President and all the 13 members of his cabinet. They are all seated around a huge conference table, facing the camera, each with his own very individual expression. The photo measures 13" x 8" with a 2" border all around. The photo is one which was apparently designed for signatures as each member has signed above his preprinted title. Included are Alben Barkley (VP): Charles F. Brannan (Agriculture); Louis Johnson ( Defense); J. Howard McGrath ( Attorney General); Mauriel J. Tobin (Labor); L.A. Harriman (Special Assistant); Jesse M. Donaldson (Postmaster); Dean Acheson (State); John W. Snyder (Treasury); Oscar L. Chapman (Interior); John R. Steelman ( Assistant to the President); Charles Sawyer (Commerce) and the Chairman of the National Security Resource Board. Most signatures especially Truman's are dark and clear, although some have some skipping of ink. Over all it is a very impressive item. An outstanding piece framed in a simple yet elegant black frame with a grey mat. It has a very dramatic appearance. (#PVP) | ||
| NO IMAGE AVAILABLE | $2,800.00 | |
| HARRY S. TRUMAN (1884-1972) Thirty third President of the United States of
America, artillery officer in WWI, U.S. senator, vice president, succeeded to
presidency at the death of F.D.R. in April of 1945. TLS, 1p., 4to., on White House stationery, Washington DC, September 13, 1950. At the outbreak of the Korean War, the president responds to Harry I. Schwimmer of Missouri, "Many thanks for your favorable comments regarding my recent address to the Nation. It is most encouraging to receive such expressions of approval I am...grateful for your...assurance of cooperation." On July 1st 1950 the first ground forces landed in Korea. On Sept. 8 emergency powers over the national economy were granted to the President under the Defense Production Act. On the date of this letter U.S. forces landed at Inchon on the West Coast of Korea just South of the 38th parallel and began the drive inland. A fine letter referring to an address made by the President to a nation newly at war. Paper clip damage on top and bottom portion, does not detract from the importance of the references made in this letter. Very good. (#PVP1127) | ||
| view image | $350.00 | |
| HARRY S. TRUMAN (1884-1972) Thirty third President of the United States of America, TLS, "Harry", 1p., 4to., United States Senate, Washington DC, November 6, 1941. Truman writes to James Wade of Sullivan Missouri. He refers to a correspondence received, including a copy of a letter mentioned sent to "Cannon" and states, "I have not talked to Cannon about this matter yet, but I will talk to him when the confirmation comes up for consideration." Excellent. (#PVP1128) | ||
| view image | $175.00 | |
| MARTIN VAN BUREN
(1782-1862) Eighth President of the United States The first US President born under the US flag. New
York state attorney, attorney general of New York, vice president under Jackson. DS, signed twice as an attorney, 1p.,4 1/2 x 7 1/2", Columbia County, NY, January 16, (1808) the thirty-second Year of our Independence. A scarce early court document , an 1808 arrest warrant for Joseph Butler. "We command you to take Joseph Butler if he shall be found within your Balliwick, and have him safely kept." An interesting item, in excellent condition, signed twice once on the front and again on the verso, both signatures are bold and dark. As a lawyer Van Buren quickly climbed the political ladder and organized the Albany Regency one of the first great political machines in the US. The slavery question was beginning to be of great concern during Van Burens's administration. Being opposed to slavery Van Buren blocked the annexation of Texas, a slavery state. (#PVP1134) | ||
| view image | $500.00 | |
| GEORGE WASHINGTON
(1732-1799) First President of the United States of America, leader of Colonial opposition to British Policies in
America. American revolutionary leader, president of the Constitutional Convention and Commander in Chief of
Continental Armies during the Revolution. Fine, bold, Signature "Go Washington" written on a 7/8" x 3" sheet of paper which appears to be a portion of lottery ticket , n.p. n.d., the year imprinted on it is 1768. Washington often participated in efforts to raise funds for projects. In the 1760's Washington was involved in a project attempting to purchase land for veterans of the French and Indian War and to build roads in the Ohio area. Lottery tickets were often used to generate funds for national projects such as these. This ticket portion which bears a dark ,bold, signature is a wonderful example. Included is an engraved portrait of Washington with a facsimilie signature. The two would frame up beautifully. Mounting traces and small tape remnants on back at edges not affecting signature. (#PVP) | ||
| view image | $4,800.00 | |
| WOODROW WILSON (1856-1924) Twenty eighth President of the United States.
His administration is known for involvement in WWI, three constitutional amendments, the Federal Reserve banking system,
the Federal Trade Commission and the Child Labor Law. SP, fine waist up, black and white Harris & Ewing photo, n.p., n.d.,. The image measures 7 1/2 x 11", set on a piece of 10 x 14" photo board, with Harris & Ewing insignia embossed on right border. The photo is a fine image. Presumably this photo was signed as President, as Harris & Ewing were official presidential photographers. Paper has minor foxing but not affecting photo image or signature. Minor chipping to mounting corners would frame out perfectly. (#PVP) | ||
| view image | $1,400.00 | |
| WOODROW WILSON
(1856-1924) Twenty eighth President of the United States. His administration known for involvement in WWI, three
Constitutional amendments the Federal Reserve Banking System and The Federal Trade Commission. DS, as President, 8" x 3" oblong, Washington DC, Nov. 13, 1916. A check drawn from the personal account of Woodrow Wilson, from his account at the Commercial National Bank. This is check #1469 and is made out to Mason-Seaman Transportation Company for the amount of one dollar and sixty cents. Nice clean check, no cancellations some creasing, minor discoloration, signature is somewhat light. (#PVP1129) | ||
| view image | $1,250.00 | |
| WOODROW WILSON (1856-1924) Twenty eighth President of the United States.
His administration is known for involvement in WWI, three constitutional amendments,
the Federal Reserve banking system, the Federal Trade Commission and the Child
Labor Law. TLS, as President, 1p., on White House stationary, 4to, Washington, 21 June, 1917. Written to Grant Squires a New York attorney who handled his finances and investments while he was president. "I have your letter of the nineteenth and will be very glad indeed to see you on the twenty-seventh..." Wilson had been a college professor and was not as wealthy as most presidents so the overseeing of his investments was important to him. Paper is slightly tones. Fine signature. (#PVP1130) | ||
| view image | $450.00 | |
