In the 1862 document when West Virginia became a state President Lincoln signed it "President of the United States and President of the Senate" but I just read that the Vice President of the United of the United States is President of the Senate. Does anyone have any information about this.
Apr 28, 2020 7:54 AM
Hi Alice -- thanks for posting to History Hub!
You're correct that the Vice President of the United States is the President of the Senate. The Senate Historical Office has information on the office of the Vice President on their website.
In 1862, the Speaker of the House was Galusha A. Grow, the President of the Senate was Hannibal Hamlin, and the President of the United States was Abraham Lincoln.
In the document you posted, Grow's signature is at the top, Hamlin's signature is in the middle, and Lincoln's signature is on the bottom -- all three are here, even though Hamlin signed above the 'President of the United States' and Lincoln signed below the 'President of the Senate'.
Congress.gov, the official website for U.S. federal legislative information, has a great overview of the legislative process. Jump to the section on enrollment to read about how bills are signed.
I hope this information is helpful!
Cheers!
Sarah