Description:

Henry Clay
[Washington, DC], ca. February 1829
H. Clay Recommends C. Dahlgren For Midshipman, Future Confederate & Brother of J. A. Dahlgren
AES

An autograph endorsement from then-Secretary of State Henry Clay in which he recommends Charles Dahlgren for the position of midshipmen. 1p, measuring 10" x 8", n.p. [Washington, D.C.], ca. February 1829. In response to a letter of recommendation from Thomas I. Wharton on behalf of the young Dahlgren, Clay writes in full on a separate sheet: "Referred to the Sec of the Navy with the re-commendation of H.C." Exhibits flattened letter folds and darkened edge toning throughout, with isolated paper clip soiling to the upper left. The accompanying letter, likely detached from Clay's endorsement, shows areas of scattered staining and handling marks. Otherwise boldly penned with interesting Civil War association!

Wharton's letter to Clay, dated February 2, 1829, reads in part:
"I have been requested to ask of you… to say a word to Secretary Southard in recommendation of the appointment of Mr. Charles Dahlgren a young man very highly spoken for the place of midshipman… He is represented as in every way qualified to perform the duties of the office with credit to himself and advantage of the Country."

Charles G. Dahlgren (1811-1888) was born in Philadelphia to Bernhard Ulrik and Martha Dahlgren. His father was a merchant and Swedish Consul stationed in Pennsylvania, who himself briefly served in the U.S. Navy. Then aged 18 at the time this letter was written, Charles seemingly utilized his father's connections to obtain the role of midshipman. His brother, John A. Dahlgren (1809-1870), had joined the Navy three years earlier and quickly achieved the position his brother now sought. Charles would later move to the American South and go on to gain command of the Mississippi Militia's 3rd Brigade, before a dispute with Jefferson Davis over the transfer of troops cost him his career.

Thomas Isaac Wharton (1791-1856) was a noted graduate and later trustee of the University of Philadelphia, who also authored a number of important legal treatises.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 10" x 8"
  • Medium: AES

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