Lot 4314
Taylor, Zachary (1784-1850) 12th President of the United States, 1849-1850. Partly-printed Document Signed as President, Washington, May 28, 1850, oblong folio, on vellum. Appointing Patrice Dillon "Consul of France for San Francisco, in California." Dated six weeks prior to Taylor's death, and a full three months before California entered the Union as the 31st state (September 9, 1850). Countersigned by Secretary of State John M. Clayton. The large, embossed paper seal is intact at lower left. There are a few vertical creases, one traversing the "y" in "Taylor," otherwise clean and in fine condition. A handsome appointment, matted at top with a 5 x 7 in. engraving of Taylor in his general's uniform, and at bottom with a 3 inch diameter bronze Presidential medal of Taylor. Framed to an overall size of 35 x 26 inches. Presidential documents signed by Taylor are rare; only William Henry Harrison and James Garfield are rarer. This document is especially rare and significant because it relates to California.
The discovery of gold on the American River east of San Francisco on January 24, 1848 started the California Gold Rush, bringing settlers to the state in huge numbers. It is estimated that over one hundred thousand fortune seekers raced to the California Territory that year alone. By 1850, some $200 million of gold had been extracted from the Sierra Nevadas and surrounding mountains, and President Taylor had taken steps toward making the Territory a state. Ironically, it would be Taylor's death (July 9, 1850) that would allow passage of the Compromise of 1850, which, among other things, admitted California into the Union as a free state.
Since.
Estimated Value $3,000 - 4,000.
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| Realized $4,600 |
