Vellum manuscript DS, signed “Th: Jefferson" as president and "James Madison" as secretary of state, one page, 15.5 x 12.75, November 22, 1804. Unusual manuscript document by which President Jefferson appoints a fellow Founding Father to a federal post. In part: "Know ye, that reposing special Trust and Confidence in the Integrity, Diligence and Ability of William Few, of New York, I have nominated, and by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, do appoint him Commissioner of Loans for the United States." Signed at the conclusion in ink by President Thomas Jefferson, and countersigned by Secretary of State James Madison. The white paper seal affixed to the lower left remains intact. In very good condition, with multiple folds, wrinkling and light dampstaining, and all of the handwritten portions (including the signatures) light but legible.
William Few (1748–1828) was a statesman who served as a delegate from the state of Georgia at the Constitutional Convention and signed the U.S. Constitution, then became one of Georgia's first United States Senators, serving in Congress from 1789 to 1793. He moved to Manhattan in 1799 and embarked on yet another career of public service, serving as a representative in New York's state assembly, as inspector of prisons, and as United States Commissioner of Loans—an appointment made by President Jefferson with this document.
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