U.S. Presidents & First Ladies
Benjamin Harrison
Benjamin Harrison, born in 1833 in Ohio, was a lawyer, Civil War veteran and grandson of President William Henry Harrison. After serving as a U.S. Senator from Indiana — this letter dates from his time in the Senate — he became the 23rd president after defeating Grover Cleveland in 1888 despite losing the popular vote. Harrison’s presidency was marked by support for protective tariffs, anti-monopoly legislation and civil rights, though that came with mixed results. After losing reelection to Cleveland in 1892, Harrison practiced international law and was active in his church until his death in 1901.
Indianapolis, Ind.
June 24, 1885
Gen’l B.H. Grierson
Prescott, Arizona
My dear General:
Your letter of the 14th inc. has been received. I sent to War Department a renewal of my recommendation for your promotion. I do not know what other affairs will be considered in connection with this vacancy but I should be glad to see you receive the desired promotion.
Very truly yours,
Benjamin Harrison
