How History Unfolds on Paper: Important Americana from the Eric C. Caren Collection, Part X

Washington, D.C., September 14-November 14, 1901. Group of two printed documents, each 7 7/16 x 4 7/16 in. (189 x 113 mm). One printed with mourning border. Chip in bottom edge of September document.

The first document (General Orders #123) was issued by Secretary of War Elihu Root on September 14, 1901, announcing to the United States Army, the death of President McKinley.

The second (General Orders #150) was issued by Theodore Roosevelt two months later, on November 14, 1901. "This Thanksgiving finds the people still bowed with sorrow for the death of a great and good President. We mourn President McKinley because we so loved and honored him; and the manner of his death should awaken in the breasts of our people a keen anxiety for the country, and at the same time a resolute purpose not to be driven by any calamity from the path of strong, orderly, popular liberty which as a nation we have thus far safely trod..."

William McKinley was assassinated in Buffalo, New York on September 6, 1901, while attending the Pan-American Exposition. He was shot twice at close range by anarchist Leon Czolgosz, while inside the Temple of Music building during a public receiving line where the President was greeting visitors. McKinley died eight days later on September 14. Following his death, Vice President Theodore Roosevelt assumed the office.