THOMAS JEFFERSON * PSA * Autograph Letter Signed as President Re: State Militias

Thomas Jefferson Autograph Letter Signed as President Lobbying for a Stronger United States Militia!

Third President of the United States, principal author of the Declaration of Independence, and one of the most influential Founding Fathers, THOMAS JEFFERSON, handwritten autograph letter signed in his typical fashion “Th: Jefferson” as President undated but circa January 31, 1807, to Senator Thomas Worthington of Ohio. Jefferson writes to Worthington seeking support of an amendment to an existing volunteers bill which had been proposed by Maryland Senator Samuel Smith. 

This letter finds Jefferson personally reaching out to his friend Senator Thomas Worthington to gain support for a bill regarding the United States volunteer militias. The measure aimed to bring greater unity and national coordination to the state militias - an effort to strengthen the country’s defenses without abandoning local control. When the proposal met pushback from those uneasy about expanding federal power, Jefferson stepped in himself, drafting the “draught of a section” he mentions here to keep the bill’s purpose alive. 

Smith, who served in both the American Revolution and the War of 1812, was himself a general in the Maryland militia. He confided to Jefferson that he doubted Congress would ever tamper with the existing militia arrangement. In 1808, however, Congress did agree to effectively double the size of the regular Army. During Jefferson's tenure as president, Thomas Worthington was instrumental in securing Ohio's admission to the Union. He served as one of the state's first senators and later was elected to two terms as governor.

CERTIFIED AUTHENTIC BY PSA/DNA EXPERT EXAMINATION and encapsulated using PSA/DNA's proprietary sonically-sealed technology. UNCONDITIONALLY GUARANTEED GENUINE. An investment-quality acquisition for any collection.

Jefferson writes:

"Th: Jefferson presents his compliments to Colo. Worthington, & incloses a draught of a section, which he proposed to Gen. Smith to add by way of amendment to the Volunteer bill. knowing Colo. Worthington to be friendly to this important measure, he has taken this liberty, as he had with Genl Smith that of delivering him the original".

Encapsulate measures approx. 6.5" x 10", letter itself measures approx. 5" x 7.75". Condition is as shown, Scattered toning and foxing, document has been silked. In very good condition for the letter's 200+ years of age. 

Own a remarkable, original piece of history! The perfect gift for the political collector, autograph enthusiast, or history buff. A must have addition to any collection!

Sold as is, as shown.