Jefferson, Thomas, as Third President

Printed broadside document signed ("Th: Jefferson"), on vellum (13 1/8 x 13 3/8 in.; 334 x 341 mm), accomplished in a clerical hand, Washington, 23 February 1803, being Joseph Goodhue's appointment as Surgeon's Mate in the Army, countersigned by the Secretary of War ("H. Dearborne"), embossed paper seal of the War Department; registration docket faded. Half red morocco folding-case, gray morocco labels.

A scarce and unusual form of presidential appointment. Most of Dr. Goodhue's career was spent at Fort Constitution, New Hampshire.