SCOTT WINFIELD Autograph Letter Signed to former Senator fro

Sale 2394 - Lot 20

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Estimate: $ 2,000 - $ 3,000

IF NOMINATED FOR PRESIDENT, HE WILL SUPPORT COMPROMISE OF 1850 SCOTT, WINFIELD. Autograph Letter Signed, to former Senator from VA William S. Archer, stating his intention to not contact the [1852 Whig National] Convention unless he were to receive a nomination [for presidential candidacy], at which point his acceptance speech would include a statement of his views in support of the Compromise [of 1850], and requesting that this information be conveyed to Governor [of TN James C.] Jones, [VA Representative John M.] Botts, and [Col. Robert E.?] Lee. 2 pages, 8vo, written on the first and second pages of a folded sheet; integral blank detached, horizontal folds. (TFC) Np, "Tuesday Night" circa 1852

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"I have decided to write nothing to the Convention or to any individual member, before a nomination, but should that honour fall to my lot, I shall, in my acceptance, give my views, on the compromise measures, in terms at least as strong, in their favour, as those I read to you two days since. Please say as much to my friends Governor Jones, Mr. Botts, Mr. Lee, &c &c &c."
In early June, 1852, the Whig National Convention nominated Winfield Scott for their presidential candidate, but the Party was divided about whether the presidential platform should declare support for the Compromise of 1850. Scott did not stay silent on the question of slavery as the Whig party leaders had hoped, and his support of the Compromise during the campaign alienated Southern Whigs. The consequent defection of Southern Whigs was partly responsible for the resounding victory of Democrat Franklin Pierce in the national election. Pierce's presidency was characterized by repeated attempts to soothe the building political tension between pro- and anti-slavery interests which culminated in the Civil War.