Details:

Joseph P. Bradley autographed handwritten letter (ALS), dated July 14, 1887, from Washington, D.C. Addressed to Robert Ludlow Fowler, Esq., the letter discusses a favorable assessment by British Prime Minister William Ewart Gladstone and a historical question concerning the family of Bishop Gilbert Burnet. Written entirely in Bradley's hand and signed "Joseph P. Bradley" at the conclusion.

Bradley congratulates Fowler on receiving commendation from Gladstone, observing that his pamphlet was deserving of such recognition.

He writes, in part:

"You ought indeed to be gratified with Mr. Gladstone's commendation; though your pamphlet was well worthy of it."

Bradley further discusses Fowler's research into the descendants of Bishop Burnet in America, noting that he had previously believed the family line to be extinct in the United States but had lacked direct evidence to establish the fact.

An interesting example of personal and intellectual correspondence from a sitting United States Supreme Court Justice, referencing one of the most prominent British political figures of the Victorian era.

Accompanied by a handsome 19th-century engraved portrait of Bradley, depicting the distinguished jurist in judicial robes. The engraving was executed by Max Rosenthal in 1889 and bears a printed facsimile of Bradley's signature beneath the portrait.

The letter measures approximately 5 x 8 inches, and the accompanying engraved portrait measures approximately 7 x 9 inches. Fine condition with light age toning, minor handling wear, and an original mailing fold. The engraved portrait exhibits light age toning and minor scattered discoloration.

Joseph Philo Bradley (1813–1892) was an American jurist who served as an Associate Justice of the United States Supreme Court from 1870 until his death in 1892. Appointed by President Ulysses S. Grant, Bradley participated in numerous significant constitutional decisions during Reconstruction and the Gilded Age.

Bradley is particularly remembered for his role on the Electoral Commission of 1877, established to resolve disputed electoral votes following the contested presidential election of 1876 between Rutherford B. Hayes and Samuel J. Tilden. As the commission's pivotal fifteenth member, Bradley voted with the 8–7 majority that awarded the disputed electoral votes to Hayes, effectively determining the outcome of the presidential election.

His judicial career also included important decisions concerning civil rights, federal authority, and the constitutional relationship between state and national governments.

Authentication:
Includes a full letter of authenticity from JG Autographs, Inc.

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Reference sku: 11700 1419357-1