Grant, Ulysses S. (Ulysses Simpson) (1822-1885) to John Sherman
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00695 Author/Creator: Grant, Ulysses S. (Ulysses Simpson) (1822-1885) Place Written: Elizabeth, New Jersey Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 4 May 1877 Pagination: 2 p. : docket ; 20.3 x 12.6 cm. Order a Copy
Mentions changes to the New York City Customs House. Writes on the behalf of an H. H. Smith, a weigher and also a brother-in-law of John Rawlins, a close personal friend of Grant and former Union General. Explains that Smith's "record has always been good in every respect" and is now the guardian of his sister's children. "[A]s executor I[Grant] feel an interest in whatever may be for their interest" and hopes that Sherman can help the family keep their present arrangements for taking care of the children since Grant will be leaving the country soon. Written on lined paper with a slight embossed design with "Holyoke CO" in the upper left hand corner. Design carries through to the following pages.
Sherman was a Republican Representative and later Senator from Ohio who served from 1855-1898. He later became Secretary of the Treasury under President Hayes and Secretary of State under McKinley. Rawlins was a deceased Union general and Secretary of War under his close personal friend, Grant.
President of the United States
Elizabeth, N.J.
May 4th / 77
Hon. John Sherman
Sec. of the Treas.
Dear Sir:
In the changes in the New York city Custom House which I see from the papers are likely to occur I want to say a word in behalf of one - H.H. Smith - a weigher. If Mr. Smith lacked within competency or faithfulness to duties I would not say a word in his behalf. But I believe his record has always been good in every respect. He is the brother of the first Mrs. Rawlins - the mother of Genl. Rawlins children - and since the death of the stepmother has had the [2] charge of them. In this charge he has been very faithful and as their executor I feel an interest in whatever may be for their interest. If their uncle should be removed it might lead to a breaking up of present arrangements for the care of their children - two of whom are girls - that would be quite inconvenient at this time just as I am about leaving the country.
Very Truly Yours
U.S. Grant
[docket]
Elizabeth, N.J., May 4/77.
U.S.Grant.
For retention of HH.
Smith, Weigher N.Y.
C.H.
Letter to Coll Customs N.Y.
May 9.
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