Rutherford B. Hayes DS

Rutherford B. Hayes signed document authorizing a presidential pardon, 1p, measuring 8" x 10", Washington, September 6, 1877. In this formal manuscript directive, President Hayes instructs the Secretary of State to affix the Seal of the United States to a warrant for the pardon of Benjamin Bryan. Boldly signed “R. B. Hayes” at the conclusion, with the rest of the letter penned in another hand.

The verso bears a docket notation reading “7 Sept 1877 / Benjamin Bryan.” Exhibits two horizontal mailing folds and mild overall toning. In very good condition.

Rutherford B. Hayes (October 4, 1822 – January 17, 1893) was an American politician who served as the 19th president of the United States from 1877 to 1881, after serving in the U.S. House of Representatives and as governor of Ohio. A lawyer and staunch abolitionist, he had defended refugee slaves in court proceedings during the antebellum years. He negotiated the political agreement to end federal support of Reconstruction.

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