Title:
Benjamin Harrison – TLS (Typed Letter Signed) as President-Elect Referencing “Principles of the Republican Party” and “Love for Our Country and Its Institutions” – December 20, 1888 – PSA LOA (Cert. #AR02381)

Description:
Offered here is a TLS (Typed Letter Signed) by Benjamin Harrison, dated Indianapolis, Indiana, December 20, 1888, written just weeks after his election as the 23rd President of the United States.

The letter appears on his printed Indianapolis letterhead and is addressed to Carlton S. Badger and others, Chicago, Illinois. Harrison’s bold ink signature, “Benj Harrison,” appears at the conclusion. The letter reads in full:

Indianapolis, Ind., Dec 20th 1888

Carlton S. Badger and others,
Chicago, Ill.

My Dear Friends:-

Your very pleasant letter of personal regard and congratulation, so handsomely engrossed, has been received. I beg each and all of you to accept my sincere thanks for this expression of your interest in the principles of the Republican party and your sentiments of love for our country and its institutions. For whatever of personal friendliness there is in your letter allow me to express my high appreciation.

Very truly yours,

Benj Harrison

The highlighted passage — “your interest in the principles of the Republican party and your sentiments of love for our country and its institutions” — captures Harrison’s public affirmation of party doctrine and patriotic constitutionalism at the very moment he prepared to assume the presidency.

The letter shows expected mailing folds, light age toning, and minor handling wear consistent with period correspondence. It is accompanied by the original mailing envelope bearing a 2-cent Washington stamp and Indianapolis postmark.

Historical Context:
Benjamin Harrison was elected in November 1888 in one of the most consequential elections of the late 19th century. Although he lost the popular vote to Grover Cleveland, Harrison secured victory through the Electoral College.

This letter was written during the brief but politically significant transition period between election and inauguration. At this time, the Republican Party stood firmly for protective tariffs, support of Union veterans, civil service reform, and national economic expansion. Harrison’s explicit reference to the “principles of the Republican party” reflects the ideological clarity of the Gilded Age Republican platform, while his praise of “love for our country and its institutions” underscores the party’s emphasis on constitutional government, national unity, and post-Civil War patriotism.

Such transitional letters from a President-Elect are especially desirable, as they reveal how Harrison publicly framed his mandate before taking office. This document embodies that defining moment — poised between private citizen and Commander-in-Chief.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
Accompanied by a full PSA Letter of Authenticity dated February 6, 2026, certification number AR02381. PSA has authenticated the signature of Benjamin Harrison.

• 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 December 1888 TLS stands as a compelling presidential transition document, explicitly referencing Republican Party principles and devotion to American institutions. Combining political content, historical timing, original mailing envelope, and PSA authentication, it represents a refined and meaningful addition to any advanced collection of presidential or Gilded Age political material.

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.

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