Illinois. Secretary of the Territory.

Under the structure of government prescribed in the Congressional Act of Feb. 3, 1809 separating Illinois from the Indiana Territory, the executive administration of the territory was given to the Governor appointed by the President of the United States. The Secretary of the Territory, who was also appointed by the President, was to keep and preserve all laws and public documents created by the Governor in his executive role. These documents relate to the Governor's official actions regarding territorial administration, local governments, law enforcement, the militia and Indians.