Lot 456
Atchison, David Rice (1807-1886) U.S. Senator from Missouri, he served 16 terms as President Pro Tem of the Senate. Atchinson was also called upon to serve one day as United States President on March 4, 1849 when James Polk's term ended, and, being a Sunday, President elect Zachary Taylor refused to be sworn in for religious reasons. So, although he never spend the night in the White House nor signed any bills, Atchison was, indeed, President of the United States.
Document Signed ("D.R. Atchison"). As Senator. Three pages, small quarto, Washington D. C., March 5, 1853. Being an appointment endorsement headed "Senate Chambers," addressed to President Franklin Pierce. One vertical and two horizontal folds, minor age toning at bottom. Very good to fine condition.
Signing with fourteen Senators, Rice endorses the appointment of Dr. William F. Wallace to the position of "Naval Store Keeper." Dr. Wallace was to be rewarded because he "devoted his whole time & energy to the late presidential struggle; and having charge of the Iowa divisions, rendered most essential and valuable service…" A nice document not only for the involvement of Atchison, but also for the eternal political finagling it illustrates.
Estimated Value $1,200 - 1,400.
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| Realized $1,150 |
