Collar Box, Chester A. Arthur, 1880

Arthur, Chester A.

Chester A. Arthur was not expected to be become president. “Elegant Arthur” – nicknamed that because of his flashy wardrobe – was viewed as a machine politician and an ally of corrupt political bosses in New York. However, President Garfield’s assassination in 1881 made his Vice President, Arthur, the new president. Arthur distinguished himself as relatively scrupulous and upstanding, and won surprised support of some critics. It is fitting that such a stylish president is commemorated with this wooden collar box.