Maryland farmer and postmaster (1794-1883) who created the first known presidential seal; he also made early seals for the Senate, House of Representatives, and several government departments. ALS signed “E. Stabler,” one page, 7.75 x 6.25, no date but circa 1850. Penned on the reverse of a Mutual Fire Insurance Company of Montgomery County statement, which lists Stabler as the company's president. A letter to relative James S. Hallowell, in full: "I have but a moment to say that we rec'd your letter,—Having to mail some 350 letters this morning, every instant of my time has been occupied—fully so until this moment—I find a N. York paper, that the Steam Ship Cherokee will be detained there until next 5 day—but I do not at present feel it expedient to take any step in the business—If S. was thwarted in his plans, he might be induced to embark in something else equally objectionable, if not even more so—and as he has determined thus to act, he must take all the responsibility upon himself—It is the greatest trial I ever had; but it may all prove best in the end—We are all about as usual health—The mail waits." Addressed on the lower panel in his own hand, and franked in the upper right, "Edw'd Stabler…Free." In very good to fine condition, with light stains and general handling wear.
