Description: This unique and historically significant 1834 letter offers a rare glimpse into the legislative process and political climate of early 19th-century America. Written by Chilton Allan, a Congressman from Kentucky, and addressed to the prominent Kentucky figure, Colonel Leslie Combs, this document details the political opposition to a pension bill intended to support veterans. The letter touches on themes of political rivalry, fiscal conservatism, and the challenges in securing veterans' benefits — a subject still relevant today. Transcription of the Letter: Page 1 Washington City Jan 12, 1834 Dear Sir, Your bill come up on Friday last being on its passage. Until then it had encountered no opposition and from every indication I had supposed it would pass without a division. But opposition sprang up from a point least looked for it. Mr. Jones took a most determined stand in opposition stating his personal acquaintance and that in his opinion you were not disabled so as to be entitled to a pension. There was a motion made by the Gilman to have the bill recommitted with instructions so to amend it as to make the pensions commence from the time application was made to congress and not from the date of the wound. The subject was discussed mostly upon the time when pensions ought to commence. And in opposition it was contended that to throw all the pensions back to the date of the disabilities it would empty the treasury, and upon this view mainly I presume the case was decided. Though I have no doubt that to a certain extent that party spirit operated. The bill was recommitted with the instruction by a large majority. Page 2 Your letter containing the result of the election for speaker having arrived after this event, and believing its publication might cause some heart burnings among you all, I thought the most prudent way was not to publish it. At a different day and under more auspicious circumstances, you will get your due from the Government. I regret to have to communicate to you a result so little looked for and which my best efforts could not avoid. With great respect, Chilton Allan Address Label From C. Allan Pd 22 Jan’y 1834 Frank’d to C. Bombo by R. Hawes jr. Represented Ash’district — Mechanics & L. Lawyer to Col Leslie Combs Politician of merit Frankfort Ky Summary and Historical Significance: In this letter dated January 12, 1834, Congressman Chilton Allan writes to Colonel Leslie Combs regarding the legislative battle over a pension bill in Congress. The bill sought to provide pensions to veterans, starting from the date of their injury rather than from the application date. However, opposition arose unexpectedly, particularly from Congressman John Winston Jones, who argued that providing retroactive pensions would strain the federal treasury. Allan mentions that political "party spirit" influenced the decision, and ultimately, the bill was recommitted with instructions to revise the start date, thus delaying its passage. This document holds significant historical value, as it reflects early American challenges in veteran support, fiscal conservatism, and the Whig-Democrat divide. The issues surrounding pension reform and federal spending on veterans continue to resonate in contemporary policy discussions. Biographies of Key Figures: Chilton Allan (1786–1858): A lawyer and U.S. Congressman from Kentucky, Allan was a member of the Whig Party and an advocate for education and social reforms. His career was marked by his dedication to improving public education and infrastructure, and he was particularly vocal on issues related to veterans' rights and benefits. Allan’s legislative work reflects the Whig Party's values of economic development and public welfare. Colonel Leslie Combs (1793–1881): A celebrated military officer, lawyer, and businessman from Kentucky, Combs earned the title of "Colonel" for his bravery during the War of 1812. He later became a political ally of Henry Clay and an active proponent of infrastructure development in Kentucky, particularly advocating for railroads. Combs’s influence in Kentucky’s Whig Party and his commitment to public service made him a respected figure in state and national politics. Congressman John Winston Jones (1791–1848): A Democratic Congressman from Virginia, Jones became an influential figure in the U.S. House of Representatives, eventually serving as Speaker of the House from 1843 to 1845. Known for his staunch fiscal conservatism and opposition to Whig policies, Jones was a vocal advocate for limiting federal expenditures, including pensions. His opposition to this bill reflects the Democratic Party’s priority on fiscal restraint and limited government intervention. Richard Hawes Jr. (1797–1877): A Kentucky lawyer and politician, Hawes served in the U.S. House of Representatives and later as the Confederate governor of Kentucky. His career illustrates the shifting political allegiances of the era, from Whig advocacy to Confederate sympathy during the Civil War. Condition: The letter shows signs of age, with wear along the edges and some tape used for reinforcement, which was common for document preservation at the time. The handwriting is legible, and the ink has retained much of its original clarity. Collector’s Note: This letter provides an invaluable perspective on early American political challenges and is a fascinating addition for collectors interested in 19th-century American history, political correspondence, or veterans' advocacy. The document not only illustrates the legislative hurdles of the 1830s but also offers a personal insight into the dedication of individuals like Chilton Allan, who fought for the rights of veterans despite political opposition.
Price: 1100 USD
Location: Telford, Pennsylvania
End Time: 2024-11-28T16:00:47.000Z
Shipping Cost: 10.75 USD
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