WHITTIER, John Greenleaf — AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED (ALS)

Danvers, MA. Important two-page letter on two 4-1/2" x 6-3/8" sheets SIGNED "John G. Whittier" to the longest serving senator from the state of Ohio, John Sherman, declining "to attend the ceremonies of the dedication of the Washington Monument" due to ill health. In part: "In common with my fellow citizens I rejoice at the successful completion of the majestic testimonial of the revenues and affection of which the people of the United States, irrespective of party, section or race, cherish for the Father of this Country. Grand however, and imposing as that testimonial may seem it is after all but an inadequate outward representation of that mightier monument, unseen and immeasurable, builded of the living stones of a nation's love and gratitude, the hearts of forty millions of people. But the world has not outlived its need of picture-writing and symbolism, and the great object lesson of the Washington Monument will doubtless prove a large factor in the moral and political education of present and future generations.. Ink dark and bold; minor edgewear. Near Fine. The Washington Monument was dedicated on 21 February 1885 after off and on construction beginning in 1848. Until the Eiffel Tower in Paris was completed in 1889, it was the world's tallest structure. John Sherman was the principal author of the Sherman Antitrust Act, which was signed into law by President Benjamin Harrison in 1890. In 1897, President William McKinley appointed him Secretary of State.