Ted Nelson

In 1820, Stephen Pleasonton, the fifth auditor of the Treasury Department, was assigned responsibility for the management of the U.S. Lighthouse Establishment. In this role he became known as general superintendent of lights. Before coming to the Treasury Department, he served as a clerk in the State Department. As the treasury's fifth auditor, his responsibilities included settling the accounts of the State Department, the Post Office Department, and of Indian Affairs.

In July 1861, Victor Smith arrived in Port Townsend, Washington Territory, the Port Entry for the Puget Sound Customs District. He came as the district's new collector of customs, appointed by President Abraham Lincoln on the advice of Secretary of Treasury Salmon P. Chase. As collector of customs, Smith's principle duties would be documenting vessels entering the port and collecting duties on behalf of the United States.