Lot 74
William Wirt, Attorney General of the United States, 1817-1829. Manuscript "Wm Wirt, Atty. Gnl. U.S." free frank on 1823 folded cover to Baltimore Md., partial "Washn. City D.C. Jan 7" cds and matching "Free" rating handstamp, 1823 internal docketing; two file folds with one affecting signature, Fine.Estimate $200 - 300.
William Wirt (1772-1834) was an American author and statesman who is credited with turning the position of United States Attorney General into one of influence. Wirt County, West Virginia, is named in his honor. In 1817 President James Monroe named him the ninth Attorney General of the United States, a position he held for 12 years, through the administration of John Quincy Adams, until 1829. William Wirt has the record for the longest tenure in history of any U.S. attorney general.
Realized: $190