9174a. [document] Rare set of documents provides a wonderful insight into the politics of appointing men to the early Lighthouse and Life Saving Services. In the first letter, Nathaniel Dominey VII Esq. of East Hampton, NY. has written to Congressman[?] O. S. Denton Esq., Rockvile Center, Queens Co., NY requesting assistance in gaining an appointment to the Lighthouse Service or Life Saving Service, it is unclear which. Apparently he has had some experience, as well as his father Felix Dominy who was keeper of Fire Island LH c. 1835-1840. The Dominy family home was  built in 1715 and is well known in the area. It was the homestead of a family renowned for generations for their craftsmanship. The Dominys made clocks, furniture, boats and windmills. They also owned and operated the Hook Windmill at the northern end of the village. The document below is the reply, included in original envelope:

From [Congressman?] O. S. Denton Esq., Rockvile Center, Queens Co., NY. To Nathaniel Dominey VII Esq. In East Hampton, NY.

“Your favor of the 15^th came safe but found me …and for the final expression therein contained please accept my thanks.

In regards to the subject matter therin contained I can only say that Suffolk County have so many applicants for keeper of stations, that I almost fear some mite be compelled to remain in the quiet shades of rural life. Last night when I returned from Riverhead I found your letter at Hempstead and 17 others on my table all from Suffolk County and all on the subject of station keeper. I think four are for the station that you formerly kept for the first time. I think to the Superintendents is accorded the duty to nominate keepers. Certain qualifications and locations are required and the Superintendent is held personally responsible for those nominated.

I am committed to no one think it unwise to do so there being free to act. If I commit an error it will be on the head & not the heart. I am very anxious that Wm. Taber should secure a nomination [to Congress]. The President will consider if an approval of his course he has the confidence of the President and the Heads of the departments. Please do what you can in sending delegates from your county in Congressional Convention to stand by Taber. He is my friend and his friends are my friends. You of course understand  me. These lines are written for your own eye only. Sept 20, 1866 Very Truly O. S. Denton. P.S.I am now residing on my farm at New Rockaway but my P.O. address is as above. I shall no doubt be in your place sometime about 10 or 12 say of October when I hope to see you.”

The second two letters, both in original envelopes and on stationery of the Superintendent, 3^rd. Life-Saving District, Bay Shore, NY. Letters are from Arthur Dominy, Superintendent, 3^rd. Life-Saving District, Bay Shore, NY to Nathaniel Dominey Sr. in East Hampton, NY.  Dated June 19, 1891 [Arthur appears to be an uncle]. In the second letter, dated June 19, 1891, Arthur berates his nephew for not taking care of his responsibilities and using items for purposes other than intended:

Dear Nat. I have received from East Hampton a letter in regard to Century – in which it states you have given that it shall not be used for that purpose. I am having trouble of any kind has arisn as it has a tendency to hurt the whole affair – What is the truth. I am afraid the whole matter has gone down in the wrong way to make a  …cuss of it and am sorry you did anything about …ssting until I had time to …co,.. them. Let me hear from you as soon as possible. Am very busy and cannot get away or would come as I am anxious about this affair. Will ………… Love Arthur

The third letter, again in original envelope and on stationery of the Superintendent, 3^rd. Life-Saving District, Bay Shore, NY., speaks of a death in the family and the burial arrangements.

A fine lot of early related documents and an important Bay Shore Life Saving Service / lighthouse link. (VG-).

$240 net.