Maine-born Union major general (1828–1914) who was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his defense of Little Round Top at Gettysburg. He later served as Governor of Maine and president of Bowdoin College. ALS signed “Joshua L. Chamberlain,” one page, 7.5 x 9.5, State of Maine Executive Department letterhead, April 2, 1870. Letter to Matthew Webb. In part: “In accepting your resignation of County Attorney for Cumberland County taking effect March 31st, permit me to thank you for your kind consideration in giving me the…dates. It has much relieved the predicament. As the matter stands, I see no other way but to nominate Mr. Matlocks.” Double matted and framed with a portrait of Chamberlain in uniform and a biographical plaque to an overall size of 23.75 x 23. In fine condition, with some scattered light toning and foxing, and a light paperclip mark to body.
After the Civil War ended, Chamberlain returned to Bowdoin College to resume his teaching career. It was short-lived when members of the Republican party thought the war hero would make an excellent gubernatorial candidate and placed his name up for nomination. In September 1868 he won the governor's seat by the largest majority in Maine's history. As governor, he collected outstanding debts owed to the state for subsidizing troops from the War of 1812 and Civil War, garnered support for the College of Agriculture and Mechanical Arts (University of Maine), and stimulated the state's economy industrial development. When he tackled the issues of prohibition and capital punishment, he faced stern opposition from his own party, the temperance movement and the Maine legislature He received death threats and his marriage faltered. After being elected to four one-year terms, Chamberlain retired from politics and went on to serve twelve years as president of Bowdoin College. Oversized. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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