1852: Dark Clouds Over The Pacific Coast Lighthouses - Part 2
There were exceptions to standard governmental procedures in every step of preparing for the construction of the California and Oregon lighthouses. Following the signing of the three-partners contracts, no bond or security was immediately required of the partners. The contract was not to be advertised; this by direct order of the Secretary of the Treasury. The Secretary had asked John McGinnis to check the law concerning requirements that government contracts be publicly advertised. This request shocked McGinnis.
1852: Dark Clouds Over The Pacific Coast Lighthouses - Part 1
March 1, 1850 was a damp, cold day in the District of Columbia. The clouds were darker gray than usual and because the sun did not appear. This was the inauguration day of Millard Fillmore as the thirteenth President of the United States. At the Department of the Treasury the fires were banked in the fireplaces in the ornate offices, the window drapes were drawn, and the doors were locked.