Lot 1528
Buchanan, James (1791-1868) 15th president of the U.S. (1857-61). He was a congressman (1821-31) and senator (1834-45) from Pennsylvania. At first a Federalist, he became a conservative Democrat and was Pres. Polk's secretary of state (1845-49) during the Mexican War. In 1856 he was elected president. Believing slavery was morally wrong but not unconstitutional, he tried to keep the "sacred balance" between proslavery and antislavery factions, but his views alienated radicals in both North and South. After Lincoln's 1860 election victory, Buchanan was faced with the crisis of secession. Believing that states did not have the right to secede nor the federal government the right to coerce them, he promised there would be no hostile moves during negotiations. U.S. troops were, however, moved to Fort Sumter; shortly after he left office, gunfire there set off the Civil War.
Free Frank ("Free / James Buchanan"). One page, 4¾ x 3", Lancaster, n.d. (illegible stamp). Addressed in Buchanan's hand to "Vergie David Esquire / Pikeville / Maryland." Matted and framed with a Buchanan portrait to 11 x 16½". Stamp postmark and "Free" stamp. Portrait needs to be remounted; soil around edges of address panel; one vertical fold crosses at "J" in James and "D" in David. A handsome piece, good to very good condition.
Estimated Value $300 - 500.
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| Realized $299 |
