Welles, Gideon

Description

Autograph ID: 6042
Condition: Very good
Description: “(1802-1878) Lawyer, journalist, founder and editor of “The Hartford Times” 1826. Connecticut state legislator (D) 1827-35, State Controller of Public Accounts 1835, Hartford postmaster 1836-41, Chief of the Bureau of Provisions and Clothing for the Navy 1846-49. Because of his strong anti-slavery views, Welles shifted allegiance in 1854 to the new Republican Party, and founded “The Hartford Evening Press” in 1856 that espoused Republican ideals for decades thereafter. His strong support of Abraham Lincoln in 1860 made him the logical candidate from New England for Lincoln’s Cabinet and in March 1861 Lincoln named Welles his Secretary of the Navy (1861-69, Lincoln-Johnson). His buildup of the Navy to successfully execute blockades of Southern ports was a key component of the Northern victory. Welles was also instrumental in the Navy’s creation of the Medal of Honor. Returned to the Democratic Party after disagreeing with Andrew Johnson’s Reconstruction policies but supported him during his impeachment trial.

Frameable 2 x 4 1/2 signature as Secretary of the Navy likely clipped from a larger autograph album page. With 4 3/4 x 3 1/4 seated bust portrait.”
Type: Signature