Washington, George (1732-1799) Autograph Letter Signed, Mount Vernon, 17 October 1796.

Description:

Washington, George (1732-1799) Autograph Letter Signed, Mount Vernon, 17 October 1796. Laid paper bifolium inscribed over one page, with addressed and free-franked self-envelope in Washington's hand, old folds. To Edward Carrington (1748-1810) regretting miscommunication regarding the appointment of Surveyor General. Self-envelope with in-filling repair, 7 x 9 in.
"Dear Sir, Your favor of the 10th instant has been received. Since the Refusal by General Wood of the Office of Surveyor Genl, it has been offered to General Rufus Putnam, whom it is presumed will accept it.
I do not recollect that Colo. Heths name was ever presented to me for this Office—If it had, and any assurance could have been given of his scientific qualifications, he would have been an eligible character in my estimation.
As it has always been my aim to fill Offices with the most suitable characters I could obtain, the aid of my friends to accomplish this desirable object, has (where characters were unknown to me) always been required; and the opinion of no one has been more acceptable than yours. With very great esteem & regard I am—Dear Sir Yr obedt & Affecte Servt
G. Washington"
Washington sends regrets, stating he did not receive Edward Carrington's (1748-1810) letter of 10 October 1796, with a recommendation for Colonel William Heth (formerly of the 3rd Virginia Regiment) for the post of Surveyor General before nominating Rufus Putnam (1738-1824) to the post, and assuring Carrington that he continues to value his advice on appointments. Putnam served as the first Surveyor General of the Northwest Territory, a position created by the Land Act of 1796. Putnam had served with distinction during the Revolutionary War, and Washington appointed him Chief of Engineers of the Works of New York. After the war, in 1788, he and a group of war veterans, settled the city of Marietta, Ohio.
Provenance: The Estate of David Spinney.
Estimate $20,000-25,000


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