May 2024 Auction Ends Thursday, May 30th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/30/2024
Zachary Taylor letter signed marked ''Private'', composed from Baton Rouge on 26 March 1848, approximately two months before he would be nominated for President at the Whig National Convention. A reluctant President, the Whigs courted Taylor, believing he would appeal to both Northerners and Southerners during a fractured time in U.S. history. Indeed, Taylor would go on to win the White House before dying mysteriously in 1850, with many believing he was poisoned by a pro-slavery faction. A slave owner himself, Taylor believed slavery should be limited to states where it was already allowed and not expand into western territories such as New Mexico and California. Letter to Dr. John Kearsley Mitchell, a noted Philadelphia doctor and chemist, reads,
''Your letter of March 7 has been duly received and perused with much pleasure. I avail myself of this acknowledgement to express my sincere thanks for the kindness shown in the terms and views of your letter. Permit me to add, that I am now, as before so repeatedly avowed, in the hands of the people of the country. If honored by election to the Presidency I will strive to execute with fidelity the trust reposed in me, uncommitted to the principles of either party. But should they cast their votes for another, I shall truly rejoice that one more able than I is charged with the responsible duties of the Executive Chair. Should I visit Philadelphia, which is at this time a matter of very great improbability, I shall be most happy to remember your very courteous invitation…Z. Taylor''.
Single page on bifolium measures 7.875'' x 9.875''. Folds and toning along top edge, overall near fine with very bold signature.
Zachary Taylor Letter Signed in 1848 Shortly Before His Nomination for President -- ''…If honored by election to the Presidency I will strive to execute with fidelity the trust reposed in me…''
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