Jefferson, Thomas, 1743-1826 to Henry Dearborn re: recommending W.Duncanson for Librarian of Congress
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC06826 Author/Creator: Jefferson, Thomas, 1743-1826 Place Written: Charlottesville, Virginia Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 1807/04/21 Pagination: 1 p. 21.3 x 18.1 cm Order a Copy
Jefferson, writing to his Secretary of War, discusses nominations for various posts, particularly W. Duncanson for Librarian of Congress, because of his distressed condition. "He was in the worst days of terror, one of the 4 or 5 who alone stood their ground as republicans in Washington and Georgetown. [....] He is warm in temper, and on account of some communications with Col. Smith in Miranda's affair and perhaps some acquaintance with Burr, might, I fear be rather unpopular with the members [of Congress]; but my confidence is that he vowed to be, & has been, an honest man in all his purposes. I am a little puzzled therefore between doubt & inclination." John J. Beckley, Clerk of the House, had served as first librarian until his death two weeks before this letter. Jefferson's doubts about Duncanson's judgment eventually swayed him as he withdrew Duncanson. Patrick Magruder was appointed in November to serve as Clerk of the House and Librarian. Written in Monticello
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