Madison, James, Partly-printed Document Signed as President, vellum, 11x 16 inches, Washington, Feb. 1, 1815. Countersigned by James Monroe as Secretary of War. Seventeen days before the Treaty of Ghent officially ended the War of 1812, Madison appoints David McClellan captain in the seventh regiment of Infantry. A lovely, intact seal is at lower left. Madison's last name is a little light. Normal folds and light overall toning, else fine.
When the British invaded Washington in August 1814, Dolly Madison's courage in saving state documents and Gilbert Stuart's famous painting of George Washington is well known. Secretary of State James Monroe did his share, ordering the removal of all State Department records and documents, including the Declaration of Independence. After the British sacked and burned Washington, President Madison appointed Monroe Secretary of War and military commander of the Federal District (1814-15) while serving as Secretary of State (1811-17).
Estimated Value $900 - 1,200
U.S. Presidents