GOVERNOR JOHN A. MARTIN - TYPED LETTER SIGNED 01/30/1888 - HFSID 87011

JOHN A. MARTIN
Rare signed letter from the 10th Kansas Governor, writing that he unfortunately cannot attend a Republican Club dinner in New York as he is unable to leave Kansas at the time
Typed letter signed: "John A. Martin", 1 page, 8x10½. Topeka, Kansas. January 30, 1888. Written on Executive Department letterhead. In part: "Dear Sir: I acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 24th instant, inclosing an invitation to attend the Second Annual Dinner of the Republican Club of New York...I cannot, at the present, leave Kansas. Please convey to the members of the Club assurances of my appreciation of their kindness". Politician John A. Martin (1839-1889) served as the 10th Governor of Kansas from 1885 until his death. Serving in the Union 8th Kansas Volunteer Infantry (eventually merging with the Army of the Cumberland) during the Civil War, Martin took place in the Battle of Perryville, the battle of Chickamauga, the siege of Chattanooga and the Battle of Missionary Ridge, and upon his return from the war, began pursuing politics seriously. He was chairman of the Atchison County Republican Central Committee for twenty five consecutive years, but would not see nomination for a higher ranked office until his Governor nomination in 1884. After election, Martin supported several causes in Kansas, including the building of over 100 school houses, the reforming of troubled youths, and woman's suffrage. His successful administration was cut short when he died from pneumonia at age 50. Multiple folds. Heavily toned. Binding holes on left edge. Lightly soiled. Small tears on right edge. Otherwise, fine condition.