Civil War General John Hartranft Grants Compensation to War of 1812 Widow PSA

Title:
1866 War of 1812 Widow's Compensation Document Signed by John F. Hartranft – PSA Certified

Description:
Original 1866 Pennsylvania state document signed by John F. Hartranft, then Auditor General of Pennsylvania, authorizing monetary compensation to the widow of a War of 1812 veteran. Dated May 30, 1866, and measuring approximately 8" x 10", the partly printed and manuscript-filled document certifies that Margaret Criver, widow of Jacob Criver of Perry County, Pennsylvania, is entitled to receive $60 — comprised of $40 gratuity and $20 annuity — under the state’s provisions for veterans' widows.

Hartranft’s bold signature, “Jno. F. Hartranft”, appears clearly in dark ink at the bottom right. The document features a Pennsylvania state seal embossment and is directed to the State Treasurer, Wm. V. Semble. The verso carries a clerk's notation indicating that Frank Smith held power of attorney for the widow’s claim. The document is well preserved, with only light age toning and the expected folds.

Historical Context:
This document reflects post-Civil War legislative efforts to recognize and compensate the surviving spouses of soldiers from earlier conflicts—specifically the War of 1812. Pennsylvania passed an act on March 30, 1866, authorizing payments to widows of War of 1812 veterans, providing both a one-time gratuity and a continuing annuity. In this instance, Margaret Criver received compensation for her late husband’s wartime service over 50 years prior.

The signer, John F. Hartranft (1830–1889), was a decorated Union general in the Civil War and later Governor of Pennsylvania (1873–1879). As Auditor General at the time of signing, Hartranft oversaw the financial administration of the state, including benefits for veterans and their families. Earlier in 1865, he had played a significant national role in supervising the execution of the Lincoln assassination conspirators, further cementing his prominence in postwar governance.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
Certified authentic by PSA/DNA, this document includes a Letter of Authenticity (LOA) dated December 8, 2025, with Certification No. AQ03030. The letter confirms the authenticity of John F. Hartranft’s signature.

• Additional Documentation & Provenance: At buyer’s request, Historical Autographs Gallery will include an additional “Historical Autographs Gallery Certificate” signed by our company founder Luke Pascal at no cost.

Closing Appeal:
This rare and emotionally resonant document captures a moment of state-level gratitude toward the widows of early American soldiers. Personally signed by a major Civil War figure and future governor, it bridges two eras of U.S. military history — the War of 1812 and the Civil War — through the lens of veteran compensation. Authenticated by PSA and featuring a crisp Hartranft signature, this piece is a standout artifact for collectors of early American military, gubernatorial, or social welfare history.

Shipping Notice:
For insurance purposes, items sold over $600 may require signature confirmation upon delivery. Higher-value items, likely over $1,500, are shipped via FedEx 2-Day with Direct Signature Confirmation. FedEx provides the most flexibility when requiring a signature, allowing you to make special delivery requests directly through their tracking system. This ensures both security and convenience for the buyer.