PRESIDENT TRUMAN APPOINTS THE CHAIRMAN OF THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
In this rare and unusual document signed as president, dated July 5, 1946, President Truman appoints Edmond M. Hanrahan as “a Member of the Securities and Exchange Commission for the remainder of the term expiring June 5, 1947.” Boldly signed at the conclusion by President Harry S. Truman, and countersigned by Acting Secretary of State Dean Acheson. The white paper seal affixed to the lower left remains intact. Hanrahan subsequently became chairman of the commission.
Includes a typed letter signed as president on White House letterhead, October 12, 1949, in part: “I am familiar with the considerations which prompt your desire to return to private business. In justice to you, therefore, I feel that I have no recourse by to accept, effective at the close of business on November third next, the resignation which you submitted today as a member and Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Your years with the Commission have indeed been fruitful in constructive results. Steady progress has been made in attaining the objectives for which the Commission was established. Regulations to protect the public interest have been strengthened and great strides have been taken under the Holding Company Act toward the ultimate integration and simplification of the vast utility empires under the Commission’s jurisdiction.”
Handsomely double-matted and framed together with a portrait to an overall size of 37.5 x 28. An interesting display, documenting the beginning and end of Hanrahan’s career as a member of the Securities and Exchange Commission. This is the first such SEC appointment we have seen.
