Partly-printed DS, signed as Secretary of State, three pages, 11.25 x 15, November 14, 1846. A patent issued to Elisha Hale who “has invented a new and useful Improvement in Water Wheels.” Signed at the conclusion by Buchanan, and countersigned by the Commissioner of patents. The second and third pages (both sides) bear a lengthy detailed description of the improvement reading, in small part: “Be it known that I Elisha Hale…have invented a new and useful Rotary machine applicable as a steam engine Fire Engine Suction & forcing Pump, Ventilation & Water Wheel, working either vertically or horizontally, and the latter, under, or above the surface of the water.” Bound in between the signed patent and the description is a 20 x 14 off-white sheet, bearing five detailed color sketches relating to the design of the invention.
Intersecting folds, with central vertical fold through first letter of signature, moderate creasing, wrinkling and rippling to pages, scattered toning, heavier to last two pages, and several partial separations along folds of sketch, otherwise very good condition. The white wafer seal is slightly toned and worn, but intact, and the original green ribbon holding the three pages together is present, but faded.
A decade before this document was signed, the federal government revised its patent-approval process, establishing the Patent Office as part of the Department of State and requiring any patent-seeker to submit specifications of a device. Elisha Hale was among the individuals submitting such a plan—in this case, a fire-fighting apparatus “applicable as a steam engine Fire Engine Suction & forcing Pump, Ventilation & Water Wheel” that, ultimately, met with the Patent Office’s approval. As required by federal law, Secretary of State Buchanan then affixed his signature to the document. Three years later, responsibility for the Patent Office was transferred to the Department of the Interior. A unique item signed by the future president as a member of James Polk’s cabinet. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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