LS signed “A. Hamilton,” one page, 6.5 x 8, August 31, 1792. Printed circular letter reads in full: “Agreeably to an order of the Senate of the United States, passed on the 7th of May last, a copy of which is herewith transmitted, I have to request that you will furnish me, immediately after the first of October next with the particular statements required by the said order. From these a general Abstract is to be formed at the Treasury; and as Uniformity in the mode of stating the receipts and disbursements will facilitate the business, a form is hereto annexed as a guide.
It is my desire that the Collectors will obtain and transmit at the same time similar documents from the Inspectors, Gaugers, Measurers and Weighers, or other persons holding under the Collectors any office or employment from which salaries, fees, or emoluments are derived.”
Double matted and framed to an overall size of 20.5 x 15. In fine condition, with several intersecting folds, one through a single letter of the signature, and light show-through from printing on reverse. Hamilton’s signature is bold and attractively-penned.
Secretary of the Treasury Hamilton was appointed by President George Washington in 1789, and immediately began structuring the federal government—a foundation that remains more than 200 years later. However, his orders were not enacted without some objection. Federal tax collectors were met with abject hatred by many people following passage of a tax on whiskey in May 1792. Many tax collectors were tarred, feathered, blindfolded, and then beaten when they came for their money, and Hamilton became the target of critics who likened the taxation to the arbitrary taxes assessed under British rule. Between the outrage and the constant beatings, Hamilton still sought some semblance of order, including this request to provide proper documentation. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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