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1867 antique EDWIN D MORGAN ny ALS to GIDEON WELLES SECRETARY of NAVY lincoln
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AI-assisted description: This write-up was generated with the help of AI and may contain minor errors. Please review images carefully and verify details as needed.
The letter is a recommendation / patronage request.
Edwin D. Morgan is writing to Gideon Welles to vouch for a man named Robert Gunnell, an engineer. He’s essentially saying:
- Gunnell is competent / has experience
- He has already been working (or is suitable for work) at iron works in New York
- Morgan supports him being given or continued in a naval-related position
So in plain terms:
?? A powerful politician (Morgan) is asking the Secretary of the Navy (Welles) to help place or retain an engineer in a Navy-related industrial job.
This fits perfectly with:
- Post–Civil War federal patronage
- Naval infrastructure / iron works operations
- High-level political networking
No major event, no battle reference — it’s about influence and employment within the Navy system.
A historically significant autograph letter signed by EDWIN DENISON MORGAN, dated October 16, 1867, written from New York and addressed to GIDEON WELLES, Secretary of the Navy and a key member of Abraham Lincoln’s cabinet. The folded letter measures approximately 8 x 10 inches when opened and bears a clear Navy Department receipt stamp dated October 17, 1867.
Morgan writes on behalf of Robert Burnell, a civil engineer, recommending him for naval-related work and noting his prior service. The letter references assignment connected to iron works in New York, likely tied to post–Civil War naval infrastructure and industrial operations. This reflects the political patronage networks and administrative influence exercised by prominent Republican leaders during the Reconstruction era.
EDWIN DENISON MORGAN (1811–1883) served as Governor of New York during the Civil War, later as U.S. Senator, and was a central Republican Party figure. GIDEON WELLES (1802–1878), Secretary of the Navy under Lincoln and Johnson, was instrumental in Union naval expansion. Direct correspondence between these two high-level figures—particularly involving naval engineering and industrial placement—is highly desirable.
Included is a later typed biographical sheet on Morgan summarizing his career and family, likely added by a collector or researcher.
Condition is very good for its age, with expected fold lines, light toning, and minor edge wear. Ink is strong and fully legible, with a bold signature.
A desirable Reconstruction-era political letter combining LINCOLN CABINET association, naval administration, and industrial history. Civil War.
Authentic period piece related to family, historyor local heritage - well-suited for historical collections, genealogical /genealogy research, or museum acquisition.Vintage or Antique.
CONDITION: See listing description and photos.
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LOC:
LOC2: PAPERBOX35-TMKTK-F260322BDB300G
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