1018503
James Buchanan
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James Buchanan, Jr., 1791-1868. 15th President of the United States, 1857-1861. Very fine condition Autograph Letter Signed, James Buchanan, one page, 4½” x 7”, one page, with integral leaf, Wheatland near Lancaster, [Pennsylvania], May 31, 1856. With original envelope.
Two days before the start of the 1856 Democratic convention at which he would be nominated for President, Buchanan declines to attend the wedding of Sallie Houston, the daughter of his friend John H. Houston, a cousin of famed Texas General Sam Houston. He writes, in full: “Many thanks for your very kind invitation to your wedding! Although it is impossible that I should be present; yet I feel the deepest interest in your welfare & ardently hope that your wedded life may be prosperous & happy. / With my kindest regards to your father & mother & the whole family circle, I remain affectionately & respectfully your friend . . . ."
John H. Houston, a government employee, lived in Washington, D.C. , as Buchanan's envelope shows. He served on the Washington City Council from 1855-1857.
In an 1855 letter among his papers at the Historical Society of Pennsylvania, Buchanan noted that he was "warmly attached" to both Houston and his family. But it is likely that Buchanan, who had sought the Democratic presidential nomination in 1844, 1848, and 1852, hoped that this time he would be the nominee by the day of the wedding and anticipated that he therefore would be unable to attend. As it turned out, Buchanan got the nomination, and in accordance with tradition did not go on the campaign trail but instead remained at home in Pennsylvania.
This letter has a beautiful signature by Buchanan. It has two horizontal mailing folds and a bit of toning on the back of the integral leaf. Overall it is very fine. The envelope is soiled but has the red wax seal intact and is in fine condition.
Unframed.
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