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In much of the 19th century, the Democratic Party was a strong organization in Pennsylvania so much so that it could nominate a presidential candidate and secure his election. In 1842, United States elections occurred in the middle of President John Tyler’s term. He had become president on April 4, 1841, upon the death of his predecessor William Henry Harrison. Tyler would be elected and remain in office until 1845 and would be succeeded by James Polk.
In the single page, 7 ¾ x 9 ¾ ALS, dated October 29, 1842, written by COL. HENRY BUEHLER (1804-1859) to his friend REAH FRAZER (1804-1856), Buehler strategizes to nominate James Buchanan. Buchanan wouldn’t become president until 1857.
“There can be no doubt of the policy of postponing the January Convention until, say the 4 March and making the case a ‘Democratic’ one to nominate a candidate for the presidency. If we go on with the ‘Buchanan Convention’ as contemplated – it will no doubt be full and respectable – all we could wish except that it will not be looked upon as a general thing and may lead to similar calls and conventions on the part of the friends of the other candidates. I have always had the opinion on the subject and now finding so many of our friends of the same way of thinking write to address you on the subject in order that we may know the views entertained at headquarters.
“Would it be best then to change the time & if so what day shall be named?
“Will the central state committee appointed at the last Democratic Convention not be considered as overstepping their bounds in taking this upon themselves?
“We will do anything in relation to the party that will be considered best and with a right hearty good will.”
BUEHLER was director of the Harrisburg and Lancaster Railroad and was prominent in coal enterprises. He had been a commissioner appointed to receive stock subscriptions for the York Haven and Harrisburg Bridge Turnpike Road Company and the Susquehanna & Juniata Bridge Company. He was married to Anna Margaret Wolf, daughter of PA Gov. George Wolf.
FRAZER was a well-known attorney and a leading Democrat in Lancaster County, PA. Some of his letters can also be found at the Kislak Center for Special Collections, Rare Books and Manuscripts, University of Pennsylvania.
Folds, light toning. A few short fold splits reinforced with archival tape. Wax seal stain on verso. Integral address leaf to Col. Reah Frazer with a fine Harrisburg, PA, postmark.
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