Details
ARTHUR, Chester A. Autograph letter signed ("Chester A. Arthur") as President, to Frederick J. Phillips, New York, 31 October [1882]. 2 pages, 8vo (6 15/16 x 4 5/16 in.], on rectos only of two leaves, the first with "Executive Mansion" heading, faint mat-burn.
ARTHUR CONFIRMS AN APPOINTMENT
In 1881, Chester A. Arthur was unexpectedly thrust into the presidency when James Garfield died on September 19, 1881 from an assassin's bullet. Here, in a boldly scrawled note to his private secretary, the President directs an appointment be made: "Please inform the acting Sec'y of the Interior that I will appoint Springer Harbaugh of St. Paul, Minn. com[missio]ner Northern Pacific in place of Thomas H. Canfield, declined." Arthur adds that "I think I will return to Washington on Thursday to remain until Monday next."
Arthur's administration was the first to challenge abuses in the patronage system of appointments by creating a Civil Service Commission, a Civil Service exam, and a system of merit-based promotions.
ARTHUR CONFIRMS AN APPOINTMENT
In 1881, Chester A. Arthur was unexpectedly thrust into the presidency when James Garfield died on September 19, 1881 from an assassin's bullet. Here, in a boldly scrawled note to his private secretary, the President directs an appointment be made: "Please inform the acting Sec'y of the Interior that I will appoint Springer Harbaugh of St. Paul, Minn. com[missio]ner Northern Pacific in place of Thomas H. Canfield, declined." Arthur adds that "I think I will return to Washington on Thursday to remain until Monday next."
Arthur's administration was the first to challenge abuses in the patronage system of appointments by creating a Civil Service Commission, a Civil Service exam, and a system of merit-based promotions.
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