LS signed as secretary of state, “Th: Jefferson,” one page, 8 x 9.75, June 25, 1790. Letter to Edward Telfair, in full: “I have the honor to send you herein inclosed, two copies duly authenticated of the Act for giving effect to an Act intitled, ‘An Act to establish the Judicial Courts of the United States,’ within the State of Rhode Island and Providence plantations.” Silked on the reverse for reinforcement. In very good condition, with several professional repairs to small areas of paper loss, and ink erosion giving the signature and text a fuzzy appearance.
Rhode Island was the last of the original colonies to ratify the US Constitution on May 29, 1790, less than a month prior to this letter. Article III established only the Supreme Court while granting Congress the power to create lower courts as necessary—a modest example of the 'checks and balances' between the three branches of government. On June 23, Congress proceeded to “establish the Judicial Courts of the United States,’ within the State of Rhode Island,” and organize Rhode Island as one judicial district assigned to the Eastern Circuit with a single authorizing judgeship; Jefferson subsequently notified the nation's governors by sending copies of the newly passed statute. This letter represents the very beginnings of the United States, invoking the Constitutional powers granted to the federal government upon ratification. It is an early example of Jefferson's role in the creation of the American judicial system, an influence which would only increase during his term as president. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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