While serving as the Ambassador to Colombia in 1829-1830, Harrison was forced to manage his farm from abroad.  When he returned to the states, he discovered that bad weather had destroyed his crops.  At the same time, his creditors were all demanding payment.  On top of his own heavy obligations, his sons also owed substantial amounts. Harrison spent much of the time after his return to America trying to get his finances in order, and was forced to sell off most of his land.  By the time he reached the White House, he was still reportedly in debt. His untimely death, only one month after entering office, may have been the only thing that prevented him from reaching total insolvency.