Description:

Peter Cooper
New York, NY, November 19, 1870
Peter Cooper Hopes Pres. Grant is "as glorious in peace as your achievements in war" & Insights on the Constitution & Founding Fathers. A Truly Remarkable Piece.

Autograph letter signed, written by Peter Cooper to the newly elected President Elect Ulysses S. Grant. 3p, dated November 19, 1870, from New York, NY. Cooper expresses his hope that Grant's administration will be "as glorious in peace as (his) achievements in war", underscoring his belief in Grant's potential to bring the same level of success and integrity to his presidential duties. He emphasizes the importance of appointing honest and competent individuals to public office to ensure both the Republican party's continued success and the overall welfare of the nation. Cooper also reflects on the intentions of the "fathers" of the nation, highlighting how the Constitution embodies the highest wisdom, virtue, and intelligence of the people, thereby establishing justice as the foundation for national welfare. In fine condition, with some toning and expected folds. Boldly Signed. The letter measures 9.875" x 7.75."

In Full:

"President Grant

Honored & Respected Friend

Knowing as I do your sincere desire to promote by every means in your power all the substantial interests of our common country, and having learned by the experience of a long business life how difficult it is to obtain reliable information of the character and qualifications of the men who are constantly pressing their claims for every place where any emolument is to be obtained, I can heartily sympathize with you in this most unpleasant and difficult duty that your office as President requires you to perform.

My observation and experience has taught me that it is always dangerous to continue persons in places of responsibility or trust after there is good reason to believe they are either incompetent or dishonest.

Our Republican party can only hope to continue in power by securing both honesty and capacity in all places of public responsibility and trust.

I have been much impressed by the wisdom and good policy manifested by one of our political opponents who was appointed to fill one of the most important bureaus in the government of our city. One of the first acts he performed when installed in office was to appoint one of the most thoroughly honest and competent men that was to be found in our country at the head of his bureau. He then in giving this man his charge told him to employ no man but such as he believed would faithfully perform his duty, and if he found he had been deceived, to have no hesitation in turning him out. By this course, he has done much to gain credit and reputation for himself and his party.

Our fathers intended by the constitution of our states and nation to embody in the forms of law the highest wisdom, virtue and intelligence of a whole people. They intended to make virtue and intelligence avail to establish justice as the only means by which the general welfare of a nation can be effectually promoted.

Our constitution therefore holds every office and corporate body responsible for the honesty and capacity of the men appointed by their authority and power.

Hoping that your administration as President may be as glorious in peace as your achievements in war have been beneficial to our country,

I remain

With sincere respect, your friend
Peter Cooper."

Peter Cooper (1791-1883) was an American industrialist, inventor, and philanthropist. He is best known for designing and building the first steam locomotive in the United States, the Tom Thumb, and for founding The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art in New York City. Cooper was a prominent advocate for the abolition of slavery, worker's rights, and educational opportunities for all.

This incredibly historical letter provides a unique insight into the political thoughts and advice from a notable NY figure in Cooper to President Grant during a most pivotal time in American history.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 9.875" x 7.75."

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