Description:

R.B. Taney ALS on Divorce, Just 4 Months After Dred Scott Decision

1p, measuring 4" x 6.25", [Washington, D.C.], July 16, 1857. A short letter signed "R.B. Taney" and addressed to Mr. [John Silva] Meehan at the Law Library, in which Taney sends a request for any documentation on Maryland divorce laws. With flattened folds and a small hole punch through the lower margin. Minor soiling. Mounting remnants on verso, some of which have caused staining to the front. Boldly signed.

Roger Brooke Taney (1777-1864) was the fifth chief justice of the United States and is well known for delivering the majority opinion in the Dred Scott v. Sandford case, ruling that Congress could not prohibit slavery in the new U.S. territories. The decision was made just four months prior to this letter, on March 6, 1857.

John S. Meehan was appointed as Librarian of Congress in 1829 and held the position for 32 years. Soon after, the Law Library was established in 1832. Meehan was eventually replaced in 1861 by President Lincoln, who appointed Dr. John F. Stephenson.

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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