Jefferson, Thomas, Partly-printed Document Signed ("Th: Jefferson") as President, vellum, 14½ x 16 inches, Washington, August 4, 1802. Countersigned by James Madison as Secretary of State. Appointing Walter Story Chandler "Major of the first Legion of the Militia of the District of Columbia." Seal is intact at lower left. Jefferson's signature is quite large. Chandler signed on the back that he agreed to uphold the Constitution of the United States and faithfully discharge his duties as major in the militia. He would die in a boating accident in Mobile Bay on January 25, 1835.
The District of Columbia Militia was established in 1802 and Thomas Jefferson directed the formation of the First Columbian Brigade. Rather than being organized into the usual regiments, it was organized into Legions with equal proportions of infantry, artillery and cavalry. One Legion was assigned to the present District of Columbia, the second to the Virginia side of the Potomac. The District of Columbia first saw action during the War of 1812. Its most notable encounter was in August 1814 at the Battle of Bladensburg when they failed to prevent the British from attacking Washington and burning many government and military buildings.
Estimated Value $8,000 - 10,000
U.S. Presidents
