Pre–Civil War Political Letter & Republican Ticket Chambersburg, Pennsylvania – October 3, 1860

Description

Pre–Civil War Political Letter & Republican Ticket

Chambersburg, Pennsylvania – October 3, 1860

 

A compelling and highly displayable pre–Civil War political grouping consisting of an original handwritten letter, matching addressed envelope, and printed Republican ticket issued in Chambersburg, Franklin County, Pennsylvania, just weeks before the pivotal 1860 election.

 

The letter, dated October 3rd, 1860, is penned by George W. Toms, candidate for Register and Recorder, and addressed to a local voter, Mr. Geo. Desaro. In a direct and personal appeal, Toms encloses Republican ballots bearing his name and politely requests their distribution—an excellent period example of grassroots political campaigning. The tone is courteous yet purposeful, reflecting the importance of local influence in antebellum elections.

 

Accompanying the letter is the original envelope, neatly addressed in period hand, as well as the printed Republican ticket listing notable candidates including Andrew G. Curtin for Governor and Edward McPherson for Congress—both significant figures in Pennsylvania’s wartime leadership. Curtin would go on to serve as Pennsylvania’s “War Governor,” making this ticket particularly desirable for its immediate pre-war context.

 

The survival of all three components together—the solicitation letter, envelope, and corresponding ticket—creates a cohesive and evocative snapshot of political organization on the eve of the Civil War. The paper exhibits expected light handling and minor staining consistent with age, but remains in very good, sound condition with strong legibility throughout.

 

An excellent and uncommon Pennsylvania political grouping tied directly to the critical election of 1860, offering both historical significance and strong display appeal.

 

Chambersburg

Oct 3rd 1860

 

Mr. Geo. Desaro

Dear Sir,

 

As you have the kindness to agree to vote for me I take the liberty of sending you some Republican Tickets with my name on, which if you will distribute for me or at least some of them I will consider myself under many obligations to you. I should on opportunity ever present itself to reciprocate your favor & shall be glad to avail myself of it.

 

Very Respectfully

Yours &c

Geo. W. Toms

 

Envelope:

 

Mr. Geo. Desaro

Chambersburg

Franklin Co. Pa

 

Printed Ticket:

 

For Governor,

Andrew G. Curtin.

 

For Congress,

Edward M’Pherson.

 

For Assembly,

James R. Brewster,

James C. Austin.

 

For Prothonotary,

Abraham D. Caufman.

 

For Register and Recorder,

George W. Toms.

 

For Clerk of the Courts,

William G. Mitchell.

 

For County Commissioner

James D. Scott.

 

For Director of the Poor,

John L. Latshaw.

 

For County Auditor,

George Jarrett.

 

 Inventory Number: DOC 415