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Historic Reconstruction-Era Congressional Letter to President Ulysses S. Grant
Offered here is an original handwritten letter dated ca. 1869–1871 from George W. Lamport (1818–1898), U.S. Congressman from New York’s 25th District, addressed to the President of the United States, Ulysses S. Grant, recommending a candidate for Postmaster of Geneva, Ontario County, New York.
In the letter, Lamport strongly advocates for William H. Adams, editor of the Geneva Courier and a loyal Republican, describing him as “poor, with a wife and several small children” and “the best man for the place.” Lamport asks Grant to replace the current postmaster, Samuel N. Anthony, despite acknowledging Anthony as capable, alleging he improperly had government printing done outside proper channels.
This is a classic example of Reconstruction-era political patronage, where local party loyalty, personal hardship, and press influence were used as leverage in appointments.
What makes this letter even more interesting is that Lamport’s request failed — Adams never became postmaster. Records show Samuel N. Anthony retained the position until 1873, when he was succeeded by Charles L. Hemiup. Adams’s name never appears in official appointment rolls.
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Transcription (excerpt):
> “Mr. President,
I desire to submit the name of Wm. H. Adams of Geneva, Ontario Co. N.Y. for the appointment of P.M. at that place. Mr. Adams, editor of the Geneva Courier, a firm Republican paper, is poor, has a wife and several small children… In my judgment he is the best man for the place…
Yours Truly,
G.W. Lamport
M.C.
25th Dist. N.Y.”
(Full transcription available upon request.)
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Biographical Notes:
George W. Lamport (1818–1898) – Republican Congressman from New York’s 25th District, served in the 41st Congress (1869–1871). His career spanned law, politics, and civic affairs in western New York.
William H. Adams – Editor of the Geneva Courier, a Republican newspaper in Ontario County, N.Y. Despite Lamport’s efforts, he was never appointed postmaster.
Samuel N. Anthony – The incumbent postmaster at the time (served 1869–1873).
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Condition:
One-page handwritten letter on lined paper. Toning, small corner flaws, and old tape on left edge. Ink is faded in spots but legible throughout, with Lamport’s signature clear at the bottom.
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Historical Significance & Collectability:
This letter is a tangible example of the spoils system and Reconstruction-era patronage politics, written directly to President Grant from a sitting Congressman. It connects to both local press history in Geneva, NY, and the broader national story of Republican power after the Civil War.
