Details:

Andrew A. Henderson autographed handwritten letter (ALS), dated May 25, 1841, from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, addressed to George E. Badger, Secretary of the United States Navy under Presidents William Henry Harrison and John Tyler. Written entirely in Henderson's hand and signed "Andrew A. Henderson" at the conclusion.

The letter concerns Henderson's application for appointment as an Assistant Surgeon in the United States Navy.

He writes, in part:

"Having understood that a board of Naval Surgeons will shortly meet to examine candidates for the situation of Assistant Surgeon I respectfully renew my application to be placed on the List of those to be examined."

Henderson further expresses his confidence that the professional testimonials previously submitted to the Navy Department will be sufficient to establish his qualifications for consideration.

The reverse retains the original integral address panel directed to "Hon. Mr. Badger, Secy of the Navy, Washington D.C.," together with a manuscript notation dated May 26, 1841, apparently recording the department's response.

An interesting piece of early American naval correspondence documenting the selection and examination of medical officers during the administration of President John Tyler. The letter was written less than two months after Tyler assumed the presidency following the death of William Henry Harrison.

The letter measures approximately 7.75 x 9.75 inches. Very good condition with original mailing folds, age toning, scattered staining, minor edge wear, and small areas of paper loss. Ink smudging is present near the handwritten date. The manuscript and signature remain clearly legible.

George Edmund Badger (1795–1866), the recipient, was an American attorney, statesman, and United States Secretary of the Navy. Appointed by President William Henry Harrison in March 1841, Badger continued serving under President John Tyler following Harrison's death in April. During his brief tenure, Badger oversaw naval administration and efforts to strengthen the American fleet, including the establishment of the Home Squadron.

Badger resigned from the cabinet in September 1841 following political disagreements with President Tyler. He subsequently served as a United States Senator from North Carolina from 1846 to 1855. In 1853, President Millard Fillmore nominated him to the United States Supreme Court, although the Senate declined to confirm his appointment.

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

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Reference sku: 11700 1419344-1