]> belmont_a August Belmont Letter An inventory of his papers at Syracuse University AM &su_name; &su_address; 28 Apr 2009 28 Apr 2009 English Overview of the Collection &su_name; &su_address; Belmont, August, 1813-1890. August Belmont Letter 1860 1 letter (SC). 4-page holograph letter, signed. 2677705 English Biographical History

August Belmont (1813-1890) was a financier, sportsman, politician, and former chairman of the Democratic National Committee. He emigrated to the United States in 1837 and founded the banking house August Belmont & Co. His political career began with his campaign work for James Buchanan, and later he worked with such prominent figures as Stephen A. Douglas and Thurlow Weed; he also corresponded with President Lincoln regarding economics and foreign interests during the Civil War. His other pursuits included social entertaining, his patronage of the arts and horse racing, in particular the latter which is evidenced by the eponymous Belmont Stakes.

Scope and Contents of the Collection

The collection consists of a single four-page holograph letter dated December 29, 1860. The letter is addressed to Senator J. J. Crittenden in Washington, and discusses the current political climate, the state of the Union, Buchanan's recent "committee of thirteen," Republican congressional leaders, and a pamphlet by John P. Kennedy entitled "The Border States." A printed transcription of the letter can be found in Belmont's book A Few Letters and Speeches from the Late Civil War, published in 1870.

Subject and Genre Headings Politics, government and public administrationCrittenden, John J. (John Jordan), 1787-1863. Belmont, August, 1813-1890. Kennedy, John Pendleton, 1795-1870.Politicians -- New York (State) United States -- History -- Civil War, 1861-1865 -- Political aspects. Letters (correspondence) Politicians. Access Restrictions

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Use Restrictions

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Preferred Citation

Preferred citation for this material is as follows:

August Belmont Letter, &su_name;

Inventory Correspondence Crittenden, J. J., 26 Dec. 18604 pages314