Henry Clay, Valedictory of Henry Clay, Printed on Silk

Description

Henry Clay delivered his Valedictory Speech on Thursday March 31, 1842.  He rose with tears in his eyes for “a long, a last, a friendly farewell.”  Clay had intended it to be his last in the Senate, but it turned out not to be after losing his presidential bid in 1844, he returned for three more pivotal years. 

“Clay announces his retirement and introduces his successor, John J. Crittenden. Briefly, Clay compares the senate to other legislative bodies. States that in November 1840, he began planning to retire but remained because of President Harrison’s death. He appeals to history to judge his work, and God to witness his disinterested motives. Alludes to his attackers and supporters and answers the charge that he has acted like a dictator. Describes his ardent temper and offers an apology to any senator who still feels resentment from “offensive” language used in debate”—Gilder Lehrman Institute.  

A beautiful, above average example: the silk has no tears and has only slight edge soiling; small rust spots don’t diminish this wonderful artifact.              

Clay, Henry. VALEDICTORY OF HENRY CLAY printed on silk.  Washington: J & G.S. Gideon Printers, [31 March 1842].  15-1/4” x18”.  Title heading; three columns of type, and a decorative border.