Washington, April 19, 1836. Autograph letter signed “James Buchanan,” one page, 8 x 10 in., written while serving as U.S. Senator from Pennsylvania.
Addressed to Lewis Cass, Secretary of War, Buchanan writes regarding engineering appointments within the department:
“Mr. Bailey informs me that he has been appointed an Engineer by the Board of Canal Commissioners of Pennsylvania & has accepted the appointment. I have, therefore, thought this a favorable moment to bring to your notice the application of Mr. Beckwith which is now on file in your Department. His testimonials will show that he is well qualified to discharge similar duties to those which have been performed by Mr. Bailey.”
An interesting exchange between Buchanan and Cass—two prominent Democratic statesmen who would later serve together in President James K. Polk’s cabinet.
Age toning and expected folds, otherwise fine with a large, bold signature.
James Buchanan Jr. (April 23, 1791 – June 1, 1868) was an American lawyer, diplomat, and politician who served as the 15th president of the United States from 1857 to 1861. He previously served as secretary of state from 1845 to 1849 and represented Pennsylvania in both houses of the U.S. Congress. He was an advocate for states' rights, particularly regarding slavery, and minimized the role of the federal government preceding the Civil War.
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