[CALIFORNIA]. UNITED STATES. PRESIDENT (Tyler). Taking Possession of Monterey. Message from the President of the United States in Reply to the Resolution of Congress Calling for Information in Relation to the Taking Possession of Monterey by Commodore Thomas Ap Catesby Jones. February 22. Washington, 1843 [caption title]. [Washington, 1843]. [1] 2-117 pp.

Bound with:

JONES, Thomas Ap Catesby. Letter of Commodore Thos. Ap. C. Jones, Transmitting Sundry Papers in Refutation of Certain Allegations Made against Him; also a Communication from the Hon. Edward Stanley, in Connexion with the Same Subject. February 22, 1853 [caption title]. [Washington, 1853]. [1] 2-180 pp.

Two works in one volume. 8vo (23 x 15 cm), modern gray cloth with gilt-lettered spine label. Except for light, scattered foxing, interior fine.

First editions (27th Congress, 3rd Session, House Exec. Document 166 & 32nd Congress, 2nd Session, House Miscellaneous No 22). Not in usual Mexican-American War sources.

Documents presented in response to the House of Representative’s call for all information attending the case of Jones, who was recalled after taking Monterey and declaring himself Commander of the occupation of California. Jones landed at Monterey in 1842 and took possession of it for the United States against the express orders of his superiors at the War Department. For this, he was recalled from his command and court martialed. The second document refers to an investigation for financial improprieties. Important documents in the history of California and the establishment of the American presence on the Pacific Coast.