Title:
Nathaniel P. Banks Autograph Letter Signed (ALS), June 29, 1888 – PSA/DNA Certified Authentic Auto 85750961

Description:
Autograph Letter Signed by Nathaniel P. Banks, dated “Waltham, Mass. 29 June 1888,” written entirely in his hand on lined paper and signed at the conclusion, “N. P. Banks.” The letter is addressed to “Hon. Mr. Williamson, Land Commissioner” and concerns a recommendation on behalf of a female clerk. Written in dark ink, the text remains clear and fully legible. The letter reads in full:

“My Dear Sir

Permit me to ask your favorable consideration of the credentials & recommendations of [   ] who is now a Clerk in your Department. She was appointed upon letters of such men as Mr Wendell Phillips & many others, which the Secretary said at the time of her application were strong enough for any position under the govt. She is thoroughly reliable & capable & bears an excellent record as I am informed in the Department.

Very Respectfully Yours

Hon. Mr. Williamson
Land Commissioner

N. P. Banks”

The sheet shows expected age toning, light handling wear, and minor edge wear consistent with its age. The document is encapsulated in a PSA/DNA holder, preserving and protecting the integrity of the paper and signature.

Historical Context:
Nathaniel Prentice Banks (1816–1894) was a prominent 19th-century American politician and military officer. He served as Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives (1856–1857), Governor of Massachusetts (1858–1861), and later as a Union Major General during the Civil War. After the war, Banks returned to political life, serving multiple terms in Congress and, notably, as U.S. Commissioner of the General Land Office from 1878 to 1881.

This 1888 letter, written from Waltham, Massachusetts, reflects Banks’s continued public engagement in his later years. His reference to Wendell Phillips—the famed abolitionist and orator—adds additional historical interest, as Phillips was one of the most outspoken anti-slavery advocates of the 19th century. The letter highlights the importance of patronage, reputation, and political networks in late 19th-century federal appointments, particularly within departments such as the General Land Office.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
Encapsulated and certified by PSA/DNA as “LETTER – NATHANIEL P. BANKS – AUTHENTIC AUTO,” certification number 85750961. The letter is housed in a PSA slab with a blue certification label and QR code on the reverse, ensuring long-term preservation and third-party authentication of the signature and manuscript.

• 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:
A compelling late-life ALS from a significant 19th-century political figure—Speaker of the House, Civil War General, Governor of Massachusetts, and U.S. Land Commissioner—this piece offers collectors both a bold signature and meaningful historical content. With its reference to Wendell Phillips and its insight into federal appointment practices, it stands as a valuable and well-preserved artifact of post–Civil War American political life.

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.