About this sheet
This impressive and highly decorative United States presidential commission, issued under Andrew Johnson, formally appoints John F. Chandler as Quartermaster with the rank of Major in the U.S. Army. Dated March 5, 1867, the document belongs to the pivotal Reconstruction period following the American Civil War, when the federal government reorganized and maintained military presence across the country.
Executed as a large-format engraved War Department commission, the sheet features an elaborate eagle vignette beneath the title “President of the United States of America,” and a finely detailed military trophy of flags, cannon, and arms at the lower margin—symbolizing Union victory and national authority. The typography and calligraphy are of exceptional quality, combining ornate script with official engraved text typical of mid-19th-century federal documents.
The document bears the signatures of key figures from this turbulent period, including Edwin M. Stanton and Edward Davis Townsend, placing it directly within the administrative core of the U.S. War Department. Townsend’s role as Adjutant General ensured the recording and issuance of official military orders, and his signature confirms the document’s formal registration. The red ink docket on the sheet reads “Recorded, Volume 18, page 224, Adjutant General’s Office, March 5, 1867,” further reinforcing its authenticity and archival function.
Marked “Official Copy,” this document represents a retained War Department record rather than the original commission issued to the officer. Nevertheless, it is a fully authentic 19th-century artifact, created contemporaneously and preserved within the governmental record system. Such copies were essential to maintaining official registers of appointments and are today valued for their historical integrity and direct association with the functioning of the U.S. military administration.
John F. Chandler can be identified as a serving officer within the Quartermaster Department, responsible for logistics, supply chains, and infrastructure—an essential role during the post-war military presence in the United States. His appointment reflects the continued organization of the army during Reconstruction, when logistical expertise remained vital.
The document remains in good condition for its age, with expected horizontal and vertical fold lines from historical storage, light toning, and minor handling wear. The engraved details remain sharp and well-preserved, and the manuscript entries and signatures are clearly legible. The large format and strong visual composition make this piece particularly suitable for framing.
An exceptional historical artifact from the immediate post–Civil War period, combining strong visual appeal with direct connections to the Johnson administration and the inner workings of the War Department. Highly suitable for collectors of American history, Civil War material, or decorative documents with strong narrative presence.
This is an original antique document, not a reproduction. All items we offer are authentic period works of art over 100 years old. The piece is sold unframed; any framed images are shown for presentation and interior inspiration only and may not always be to scale.
Keywords: Andrew Johnson, Civil War, Reconstruction, U.S. Army, Quartermaster, Major commission, War Department, Edwin Stanton, E.D. Townsend, Adjutant General, military appointment, 1867 document, American history, presidential commission, eagle engraving, military diploma, archival record, Union Army, 19th century engraving, official copy
Condition: Folded as issued with visible horizontal and vertical fold lines, light overall toning, minor edge wear and handling marks consistent with age, ink entries and signatures clear and legible, no major losses or repairs observed.
Framing tips: This piece benefits from a large-format presentation. A dark walnut or ebonized frame with a wide ivory or warm off-white mat will enhance the contrast and highlight the engraved vignettes. Museum glass is recommended due to the size and tonal subtlety of the paper.
Technique: Engraving and manuscript on paper
Maker: U.S. War Department, Washington D.C., 1867
