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Vellum manuscript DS, signed “Th: Jefferson" as president and "James Madison" as secretary of state, one page, 15.5 x 11.5, May 25, 1801. Document appointing William C. C. Claiborne as the governor of the Mississippi Territory, in part: "Whereas the Office of Governor in and over the Mississippi Territory is at present vacant; Now Know Ye, that reposing especial Trust and Confidence in the Patriotism, Integrity and Abilities of William C. C. Claiborne, of Tennessee, I do appoint him Governor in and over the said Mississippi Territory." Neatly and boldly signed at the conclusion in ink by President Thomas Jefferson and Secretary of State James Madison. The white paper seal affixed on the left side remains intact. In fine condition, with uniform overall fading, not affecting readability or the clarity of the signatures.
Claiborne served in the House of Representatives through 1801, supporting Jefferson over Burr in the contentious election of 1800 and helping to rally votes among the Tennessee delegation. Shortly after taking office, Jefferson appointed him governor of the Mississippi Territory, a position Claiborne held from 1801 to 1803.
In 1803, Claiborne relocated to New Orleans to help oversee the transfer of Louisiana from French to United States control following the Louisiana Purchase. He subsequently governed the Territory of Orleans from 1804 to 1812. Upon Louisiana’s admission to the Union in 1812, Claiborne was elected the state’s first governor, serving until 1816. An important early Jefferson presidential appointment, documenting the administration of America’s southern frontier on the eve of the Louisiana Purchase.
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