First African-American in the House of Representatives...

THE PRESS, Philadelphia, March 1, 1869

* 1st African American to make speech in Congress

John Willis Menard has the distinction of being the first African-American to be elected to the House of Representatives, representing Louisiana, and consequently on February 27 he became the first to address the chamber.

The back page is mostly taken up with reports from Congress & includes a subhead: "Contested election Case" which was between Menard and Caleb Hunt. The report includes in part: "...Mr. Maynard asked unanimous consent that Mr. J. Willis Menard, who is a negro, holding the certificate of election, be sworn in as the sitting member pending the consideration of the case...The rules were suspended and Mr. Menard made his appearance about the centre of the Republican side of the House. Mr. Woodward suggested that Mr. Menard speak from the Clerk's desk (Laughter among the Democrats)...Mr. Menard then address the House, referring to the fact that Mr. Hunt has not taken the testimony within the time prescribed by the act. He said that if Mr. Hunt did not know the law of Congress, he was a very poor subject to be sent to Congress (The point was deemed a good one, and caused some amusement among the members.) He went on to argue the details of the question in an easy quiet, good-humored style, which attached the attention and apparent sympathy of members. After speaking for about an hour and a quarter he asked and obtained leave to print the remainder of his remarks in the Glove. After he resumed his seat many members approached and congratulated him in a friendly manner...".

Eight pages, archival strengthening at the blank spine, good condition.