This collection consists of one letter (dated May 14, 1846) from James E. Tyler (VMI Class of 1845) to President James K. Polk. The letter requests a commission in the United States Army or Marine Corps. Tyler mentions recommendations from Francis H. Smith and John T.L. Preston, and states that he was an "inmate" of VMI for two years.
James E. Tyler was born circa 1826 and was a non graduate of VMI, Class of 1845. No post-VMI information is currently known.
There are no restrictions.
Manuscript collections in the VMI Archives are made available for educational and research use. The VMI Archives should be cited as the source. The user assumes all responsibility for identifying and satisfying any copyright holders. Materials from our collections may not be redistributed, published or reproduced without permission from the VMI Archives. Contact the VMI Archives for additional information.
James E. Tyler letter, 1846 May 14. MS 0074. VMI Archives, Virginia Military Institute, Lexington, Virginia.
Written from Richmond, Virginia. The letter requests a commission in the United States Army or Marine Corps.
Richmond May 14th
Your Excellency
Dear Sir
During Mr. Tyler's administration I applied for a Lieutenancy in the Marine Corps which I did not obtain on account of a want of vacancies. I now wish to apply for a Lieutenancy in either the Marine Corps or army as I understand that a regiment of mounted Rifleman are soon to be raised. You will find recommendations filed in the War and naval departments from the following gentlemen Andrew Stevenson, R.A. Scott, Chapman Johnson, R.W. Leigh Dr. Carmichael (with whom I study) and likewise from Col. F.H. Smith, Major Preston and Capt Williamson, Commanders at VA Military Institute of which Institution I was an inmate for two years. Should more recommendations be necessary I can send them immediately. Please let me know wether[sic] there is the slightest chance of obtaining an appointment. Should you be pleased to give me a Lieut. Commission I will undertake to raise a Company of regular troops. by the middle of next month and moreover I promise to have them completely drilled in a short time. The recommendations I speak of were addressed to Mr. Tyler but should it be necessary I can obtain recommendations from all the above mentioned gentlemen to testify to my competency to fill the office for which I apply. Let me hear from you as soon as convenient.
I remain
Your humble servant
James. E. Tyler