AMER AUGUST 2015
The live portion of this session begins on Monday, August 24, 2015.
RARE PRESIDENT ANDREW JACKSON FIRST INAUGURAL MESSAGE DECEMBER 8, 1829 SILK BROADSIDE. This large silk broadside measures about 30" x 18-1/2". It is not found in Sabin or Collins titled "PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE". Prior to Andrew Jackson's presidency, rarely had the common people been aroused by an active interest in politics. This message printed in text during the period was not uncommon, but this massive silk broadside is rare and tells of the process of the government putting new people in their places. Jackson facilitated the adoption of the principle of rotation in office, under which tenure was usually limited to 4 years, but terminated with lack of good behavior. This was in keeping with Jackson's personal views as he looked upon politics as a very personal matter and he always believed his friends should be rewarded by public service and preference. "The recent demonstration of public sentiment inscribes, on the list of Executive duties, in characters too legible to be overlooked, the task of Reform; which will require, particularly, the correction of those abuses that have brought the Patronage of the Federal Government into conflict with the Freedom of Elections, and the counteraction of those causes which have disturbed the rightful course of appointment and have placed or continued power, in unfaithful or incompetent hands". Accompanying this are three 19th century engravings of Andrew Jackson, 2 framed and one loose. SIZE: PROVENANCE: From the personal estate collection of John W. Armiger Jr. CONDITION: Good overall as framed, minor reductions, staining and soiling. Figural borders intact other than one small piece missing at top center as seen in photos. Frames measures 33" x 21-1/2". Engravings are very good overall as framed; loose engraving is heavily foxed and acid burned. 49055-166 (800-1,200) JS0