ALS as president signed “Th: Jefferson,” one page, 7 x 8, August 26, 1808. Letter to Zebedee Cook on behalf of the Selectmen of Newburyport, Massachusetts, in full: “I beg leave to communicate through you the enclosed answer to the representation which came to me under cover from you, & to add the assurance of my respect.” Reverse is docketed in the recipient’s hand “Letter from President Jefferson, August 26, 1808.” Reverse also bears another handwritten notation. Matted and framed with an engraved portrait of Jefferson and a small caption to an overall size of 21 x 17, with a window in the backing for viewing the reverse. In very good condition, with a brush to first portion of signature, horizontal folds, and some scattered light toning and wrinkling.
As Great Britain and France struggled for control of Europe during the Napoleonic Wars, repeated violations of US neutrality pushed President Jefferson to impose the Embargo Act of 1807. Hoping to avoid military mobilization, the embargo was intended to chasten the feuding nations and put an end to their belligerent behavior towards America. On behalf of the Selectmen of Newburyport, Boston, and Providence—all heavily reliant on naval trade—Zebedee Cook protested the measure. Though Jefferson sent this letter with a reply in defense of his decision, he eventually recognized the ineffectiveness of the law, and repealed it during his final days in office in March of 1809. An attractive letter penned during his presidency, as the nation struggled to overcome the devastating burdens of an unpopular bill. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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