Scope and Content Note
The papers of Albert Gallatin Marchand span the period 1801-1862, with the bulk of the material dating from 1839 to 1843. The collection documents Marchand’s tenure as a two-term Democratic member of the United States House of Representatives (1839-1843) and his life as a transitory resident of Washington, D.C., and consists almost entirely of letters to his wife, Susan S. (Kuhns) Marchand. Though he was not an influential member of the House, Marchand's correspondence provides insight into the daily workings of that body during the administrations of presidents Martin Van Buren and John Tyler. (No letters from William Henry Harrison’s month-long presidency are included.) He offers observations on the legislative process, comments on the distinctions between Democrats and Whigs, and relates his often witty and withering assessments of fellow representatives. His letters convey the details of his daily routine, such as living arrangements at Gadsby’s Hotel and other temporary residences and his frequent constitutionals around Capitol Hill, while also expressing his longing to return home to his wife and young children. Additional correspondence includes letters from Susan’s brother, Daniel S. Kuhns, a letter from Marchand to his younger brother, Henry Clay Marchand, and an 1862 condolence letter to Susan upon the death of William K. Marchand, Albert and Susan’s son. Of note is his June 8, 1840, speech supporting the creation of an independent United States treasury, the collection's sole item of an official nature illustrating his role as a representative.