Walker, John G. (1835-1907) to Thomas Gibbons
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC02763.04 Author/Creator: Walker, John G. (1835-1907) Place Written: Washington, D.C. Type: Typed letter signed Date: 12 January 1904 Pagination: 2 p. : envelope ; 26.8 x 20.9 cm. Order a Copy
Thanks Gibbons for his gift of a smoking jacket as a "New Year's remembrance." Describes his enjoyable visit to the Isthmus during November and December. Discusses the new republic of Panama, recently declared independent from Colombia, and proclaims it "fairly on its feet." Comments, "A good deal of opposition [to the canal treaty] has developed [in the Senate], all caused by a desire of the Democrats to make political points to be used in the next Presidential canvass against Mr. Roosevelt and the Republican party." Believes the treaty will ultimately be ratified, perhaps in early February. Concludes that he and his family are all well, and Captain Staunton is well, and sends his good wishes.
John Grimes Walker (1835-1907) was a distinguished Union naval veteran of the Civil War. He was appointed President of the Isthmian Canal Commission in 1899. Prior research suggests that Gibbons served in the Department of State.
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