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Thomas Jefferson Autograph Letter Signed as Rector of the University of Virginia. ...
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Description
Thomas Jefferson Autograph Letter Signed as Rector of the University of Virginia. One page, 8" x 9.87", Monticello; October 17, [18]20. Letter written by Jefferson regarding the lending and execution of funds meant for the construction of the campus. Signed, "Th. Jefferson" and accompanied by an engraving of the former president that measures 3.12" x 4.37".He writes: "I have this day duly executed and now inclose [sic] the bond you were so kind as to prepare and forward me for the 20,000 D. now proposed to be borrowed of the Literary Fund by the Visitors of the University and I have executed it as I found it prepared, requiring that the interested should commence on the 1st day of the present month. It is a question however which it is my duty to refer to the justice of the President and directors whether the interest should commence before the money is placed under the order of the University? I must observe at the same time that the sooner this is done the more desirable on our part, as the Proctor informs me that the necessities of his workmen render the final order for the money very urgent."
Likely penned to Joseph C. Cabell, Virginia state senator and Jefferson's closest ally on the Board of Visitors for the University of Virginia, Jefferson wrote this letter amidst the first round of construction of the campus. Only a year and a half earlier, the General Assembly of Virginia approved the creation of a public university. In November 1821, the Visitors reported that six pavilions had been successfully completed with four more due to be done that summer. The majority of these efforts were financed by the Literary Fund, a governmental body that existed to allot money for the purposes of public education in Virginia. In the letter offered here, Jefferson confirms the receipt of the latest round of funds, apparently desperately needed to continue work, and questions how the loan should start acquiring interest.
Known as the "Father of the University of Virginia," Thomas Jefferson counted the institution as one of his greatest accomplishments. Upon his death, Jefferson wished for only three things to be listed on his tomb: the creation of the Declaration of Independence, the publication of the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, and the establishment of the University of Virginia. From its founding in 1819 to its ultimate opening in 1825, Jefferson played an active role in developing the university. Not only did UVA owe its creation to Jefferson's efforts to persuade state legislators of its inherent value to the state, but his architectural plans also served as the basis for the first phase of construction, including the famous Rotunda.
Condition: Toning throughout and creased along folds. Paper loss at all four margins. Archival tape at center fold and all four margins on recto leading to discoloration on verso. Engraving has foxing throughout with staining at bottom. Smudging and foxing on verso.
Auction Info
2023 September 21 Historical Manuscripts Signature® Auction #6272 (go to Auction Home page)
Auction Dates
September, 2023
21st
Thursday
Bids + Registered Phone Bidders: 9
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