Thomas Jefferson 1790 Letter as First Secretary of State Sells for $41,590

A rare letter signed by Thomas Jefferson written eight days after he assumed the role of America's first Secretary of State has sold for $41,590 at RR Auction.

Dated March 30, 1790, and dispatched from the nation's early capital in New York City, the letter reveals Jefferson's initial reflections on his new responsibilities in the Department of State.


In the letter, Thomas Jefferson writes to his friend and former secretary, William Short: "There being no Vessel here bound to any Port in France, I avail myself of one going to Amsterdam to inform you of my having entered on the Duties of the Department of State, comprehending that of foreign Affairs." It is signed "Th: Jefferson".


Jefferson also touches on the challenges of transatlantic communication, noting his intent to provide a fuller update to Short when a more reliable means of delivery could be arranged. The missive, annotated with a date indicating its receipt on July 16, 1790, marks an important period in the nascent Federal government, including Jefferson's work from 57 Maiden Lane where he famously hosted Alexander Hamilton.

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