Description
This collection primarily consists of correspondence and notes of James K. Polk, dating from 1844 to 1849, and correspondence
of his wife Sarah Childress Polk, dating from 1883 to 1889.
Background
James K. Polk (November 2, 1795-June 15, 1849), the eleventh President of the United States, was born in Mecklenburg County,
North Carolina, the son of a farmer and enslaver. The family relocated to Tennessee, where Polk was admitted to the bar in
1820 and was elected to the state legislature in 1823. He served as a congressman in the U.S. House of Representatives from
1825 to 1839, becoming speaker of the house in 1835. Polk was elected governor of Tennessee in 1839 but failed in his bids
for reelection in 1841 and 1843.
Extent
2.34 Linear Feet
(2 flat boxes)
Restrictions
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obtaining necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
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information.