Announcement of the death of President James Buchanan

This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/14/2011

Rare 1 ½ page manuscript document, folio, June 2, 1868, repaired split at folds, else fine. An exceedingly rare document issued by the "Select and Common Councils", in Lancaster, PA., announcing the death of Ex President James Buchanan, who had died the day before on June 1. It details ceremonies and the funeral for Buchanan, and reads in full: "Select and Common Council met specially on Tuesday June 2nd 1868, in relation to the death of Ex President James Buchanan. The following resolutions were adopted. Resolved by the select and Common Councils of the city of Lancaster, in special session assembled, that we have learned with profound sorrow and regret of the death of our distinguished citizen Hon. James Buchanan Ex President of the United States. Resolved that in the death of this great lawyer, eminent statesman and pure upright and honorable gentleman, Lancaster has lost its most distinguished citizen. Resolved that in him the poor of our city have lost a friend who testified his regard for them in substantial charity, as our municipal record for many years back will attest. Resolved that in respect to the memory of the deceased, we will attend the funeral in a body, and that the Mayor, Recorder, Alderman and city officers generally be invited to accompany us. Resolved that Councils assemble in their respective chambers on Thursday next at 2 o'clock PM to proceed to the funeral of the deceased. Resolved that the Mayor of the city, issue his proclamation requesting the suspension of business on Thursday the 4th instant - the day of the funeral of the deceased, between the hours of 2 o'clock and 5 o'clock PM. Resolved that a joint committee of two from each body be appointed to make the necessary arrangements for the conveyance of the members of the Select and Common Councils to the funeral of Ex President James Buchanan on Thursday the 4th instant." The document is signed by the Clerk of the Select and Common Councils. Buchanan died the day before at his beloved estate "Wheatland" in Lancaster. A rare, and unique document, and one that is difficult to estimate as such.

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