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If You Do Not See What You Are Seeking,
Please Call, Fax or Email Your
Request.
There Are Many Other Items Available,
And Stock Changes Almost Daily.
Please be advised
that the following items are "One-Of-A-Kind" and are subject to
prior sale.
Bordered Items are Clickable for a Larger
View of the Piece.
Featuring Items
From Catalog 165, and more.
This section was updated on 13 January 2010
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[Chamberlain, Joshua Lawrence – Book from his library] THE WORKS OF THE LATE EDGAR ALLAN POE…. Redfield: 1853. Vol. 1, TALES. 495p. Signed “J. Lawrence Chamberlain / Bangor 1854”. |
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Chamberlain here identifies a book from his library. At this time, he had already graduated from Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine and was completing courses at the Bangor Theological Seminary. He had yet to make his mark on Little Round Top at the Battle of Gettysburg nine years later.
A desirable book from his library; v.g. w/ lt. sp. sunning. |
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(Civil War – Confederate) Walker, J[ames] A[lexander] (BG, C.S.A.; expelled from VMI; challenged “Stonewall” Jackson to a duel). Doc. Signed. N.P., circa Nov. 21, 1862 . Printed form, in MS, 7” x 10” . |
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A provision return for Capt. Wm. D. Brown’s light artillery company, Early’s Brig. Walker was colonel of brigade. The return covered Nov. 21 – Nov. 25, 1862 , and accounted for 430 rations of fresh beef, flour and salt, for a company of 86 men. Logistics are the key to military operations, and here is an important instrument for the operation of General Lee’s army.
Lt. fox; usual toning; else clean and strong. Walker signs boldly in ink; rest in pencil.
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(--) Women of Maryland. AN APPEAL FOR PEACE SENT TO LIEUT. GEN. SCOTT, JULY 4, 1861 . Np: 1861. Broadside. Approx. 8” x 9 ½” [Parrish 6090]. |
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In this broadside the “Women of Maryland,” meaning the Secessionist leaning women of Maryland , appeal to Winfield Scott to stop the war before it fully begins. They call the pacifist mission of women “holy work,” and they seem to hope that Scott will refuse his duty of commanding the Union armies. They call out various Confederate leaders by name for worshipful praise, including Lee, Beauregard, and Davis.
This is a compelling piece of propaganda, drawn up by southern women in the desperate hope of stopping the war, just two weeks before First Bull Run changed everything.
Lt. fox w/ lt. folds.; horiz. and vert. folds lightly mar text; old tape repair on the verso; else v.g. |
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(--) (Soldier’s Documents) Noell, Rob’t G. (Pvt., Co. D., 3rd Alabama Reserves). Collection of 3 personal docs relating to Noell’s military service and private affairs; 3 1-page docs. |
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Documents include 1) ALs to R. G. Noell from Wash. Hartsfield, Thomaston, AL, 16 April, 1858; 1p., Hartsfield asks Noell for information relating to resolution of a debt he owes “the Richardson boys” ; 2) Doc appointing Floyd Hosea as overseer of a section of the Wedowee Road, and directing him to apply to Noell, among others, for “hands” ;Cleburne Co., AL, 11 July, 1867; signed A. D. Chandler, Judge of Probate, 1p.; 3) Noell’s “Oath of Allegience” to the United States, partially printed doc, accomplished September 13th, 1865, and sworn before 1st Lt. Eliakim Chase of the 2nd N.Y. Vet. Cav., Noell and Chase signing.
All docs usual wear and toning, but clean & readable; lt. show-through on oath mars some printing; else very good.
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(Civil War – Union) Fales, John. (likely Bat. E, 3 rd U.S. Art.). ALs, Hilton Head, S.C.: Dec. 29, 1864. To Mrs. Alden Adams, his sister. 8vo., 2p., + ¼ sheet. |
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Fales discusses service on the barrier islands with the newly arrived army of W. T. Sherman. He includes an account of an artillery attack on an enemy camp, plus, most notably, Sherman ’s expulsion of all newspapers’ correspondents from the camp with the exception of Frank Leslie. He also writes about government seizures of property that was sent to New York for auction.
Usual toning and fold lines, but clean; second leaf clipped to approx 2” ; else very good.
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(Civil War – Union Broadside) CAVALRY HORSES WANTED! Broadside. Vermont : 1862. 1p., 10 ½” x 7 ½”. |
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The blank form reads, in part, “The subscriber will purchase horses suitable for cavalry uses, at ___ county.”
Lt. soil; 2 ¾” stain, probably from tape, partially covers letter “W” in Wanted!; else very good. An unusual broadside from the Civil War. |
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Davis, Jefferson Autograph signature on large card. 6-1/2 x 4-1/2 inches (sight), museum mounted; framed in a brown wood frame 11-3/4 x 9-1/2 inches. |
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The signature has been framed by a hand drawn rectangular inked line and crossed Confederate flags – a First National flag and the St. Andrews Cross battle flag.Executed in ink and watercolor (red and blue, with brown and bronze staffs).
A striking display piece, all the more intriguing because the artwork most probably was accomplished by Davis’s daughter Varina Anne, who is known to have painted similar items. Born in the Confederate White House, the “First Daughter of the Confederacy,” Varina Anne, wrote several novels before her death in 1898 at age 34.
Clean, with some overall toning, but of very fine appearance. |
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A Fine Collection of Edwin Forbes Prints Just Added to the Prints, Paintings and Sculpture Page.
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Grant, Ulysses S. (Union Genl. in Chief; 18th President) Albumen Carte-De-Visite Photograph, signed (“ U.S. Grant / Lt. Gen. U.S.A.”). |
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A vignetted bust view in uniform, with a bold, clear signature with rank.
Handsomely mounted in a deep mat with decorative lines and museum framed. |
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Check the Presidential Section for more Grant items.
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(Halleck, H. W.) Pencil dispatch, in secretarial hand (possibly a receipt or transmittal copy), from “H W Halleck / Maj Genl” to “Genls Pope & Buell”. H.Q. ( Corinth , MS ): 30 May 1862. Sq. 4to.; 1p. |
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An important directive, written on the very day that Halleck’s troops moved into the important transportation hub of Corinth , Miss. , following a month-long siege, and its evacuation by Beauregard’s rebel army. Halleck states: “I do not wish Corinth occupied in force at present. Genl. Pope will withdraw… & occupy the high ground to the south east…Genl. Buell will have a cavalry force in Corinth & occupy the enemy’s entrenchments with one division… Genl. Thomas’s forces except his cavalry will fall back to the enemy’s entrenchments & hold the…road to Russells & with Genl. McClernand’s reserve…be prepared for any movement of the enemy on our right…Scouts & reconnoitering parties will move on the roads leading out of Corinth to…watch the enemy’s movements. Genl. Pope with his reinforcements from the right wing will proceed to feel the enemy on the left.”
Contemporary ink docket overleaf; some faint discoloration; paper a bit cockled; left and bottom margins irregular, with remnants at left of binding stub from a letterbook |
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Johnson, Andrew (Lincoln's Vice 2nd President, 17th President) Autograph Letter. Washington, DC: 9 March 1861. To Hon. Secretary of the Navy. 8vo.; 1p. |
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Johnson asks Gideon Welles about an appointment to the “ Naval School ” for a fellow Tennessean: “…You will please inform me if there is a vacancy from the first Congressional District of Tennessee.”
V.g.; vert. fold. |
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Additional Andrew Johnson Items are in the Presidential Section
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(Lee, Robert E.) Photograph, the Vannerson “Blockade” Portrait. Anderson Studio, 1864. 6 ½” x 5 ½” (sight) in matte; inscribed on verso and signed by Mary Custis Lee [ April 9, 1901 ]. |
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General Lee’s daughter inscribed this famous left profile portrait to Mrs. St. John Alison Lawton. Inscription reads in full, “General Robert E. Lee / of Virginia / C.S.A. / To dear Mrs. Lawton / from / his daughter, / Mary Custis Lee / partially obscured. Accompanying card identifies Lawton as President General of the U.D.C., in 1925.
A vivid image; v. lt. stain matte. |
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Logan, John A. "Black Jack" Major General. [U. S. Representative from Illinois; Vice Presidential Candidate; Namesake of Logan Square in Chicago (which was in his congressional district & Logan Circle in Washington, D.C.]. Clipped signature, framed with engraving of Logan in field as major general, approx. 13” x 9 ½”. |
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Very light ink spotting around “L” in sig; otherwise bold and clean with a very nice engraving.
Logan Square features Chicago's monument commemorating the centennial of Illinois statehood. |
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Longstreet, James (Lt. Genl., C.S.A.) Autograph Letter, signed, as “Paymaster” to Col. B. F. Larned. Albuquerque: 19 March, 1860., 1p., 4to. |
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Paymaster Longstreet sends a request for more funds to pay the growing number of troops in his area. It read in part “I shall require further deposit of fifty thousand dollars, in consequence of the large addition of troops ordered to my district. When I last wrote on the subject, I hoped that the other Pay Masters, had made their estimates for a supply to the end of the fiscal year, and would be able to turn over, to me, funds to pay the Troops from their Districts, but Major Fry writes me that he will have no funds to turn over. I fear therefore that I shall have to get all the funds that I use myself.”
Conservation framed w/ photo; on lined watermarked paper w/ lt. ch. extrems.; distinct folds do not mar; sig. clear. |
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Meade, George G. (Major General, U.S.A. ; Commander Army of the Potomac). ALs, “Geo. G. Meade” , in pencil, 1p., on stationery with heading “Head-Quarters, Army of the Potomac ” , 6 ½” x 3 ¾”, 18 May, 1864 , 8:20 A.M. , to Maj. Gen. Horatio Wright, integral address leaf.
With
Meade, George G. (Major General, U.S.A. ; Commander Army of the Potomac) Carte de Visite from life; back stamp by E & H.T. Anthony; identified “Geo. G. Meade / Major Genl. Cmdg. / “Army of the Potomac ” |
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Awaiting the result of Gen. James B. Ricketts’ advance during the battle of Spotsylvania. On May 18 a Federal attack was ordered on the front of Wright’s VI Corps, across the same blood-drenched ground made famous by the May 12 Mule Shoe battle, and here Meade admonishes his subordinate, “Should it prove impracticable to make any impression on the enemy you will have to return to your position of yesterday and it is of importance that this movement if made, be made as soon as possible. I wish therefore you would push Rickett’s forward that a conclusion may be arrived at.”
As it turned out Ricketts’ division arrived at the jump-off point too late to make “any impression” on Confederate General Richard Ewell’s line. The Union troops that did go in were butchered, and the attack was largely over by 8:20 in the morning, when this message was drafted.
Lower left hand corner stained, light soiling to crease folds on verso.
This Carte-de-visite of Meade has beautiful rich tone, and very slight soiling at edges; penciled identification is a little crowded, but easily readable. |
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Newton, John (Maj. Genl., U.S.V.; assumed command of I Corps at Gettysburg when Gen. J.F. Reynolds was killed). Partially Printed Document, signed “John Newton / Brg Genl” on form for United States Military Telegraph. Np: nd (c1861); with albumen CDV, 16” x 12 ¼” framed. |
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General Newton wrote this undated telegram to his superior, General William B. Franklin in late 1861, likely soon after his September 23 appointment as brigadier general. At the time, Newton was responsible for constructing fortifications around Washington.
He writes in full, “Genl Franklin / The Genl wishes me to stay yet awhile – don’t know whether I will be down to-day. Will telegraph.” The general detaining him in Washington is probably George McClellan. By December, Newton commanded a brigade in Franklin’s division.
A clean document, well presented in red, white and blue matte; CDV is presented in oval matte, featuring Newton’s head and torso, wearing the single star of brigadier general. |
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Pope, John (Maj. Genl., U.S.V.; commdr., Army of the Miss. , victor at Island No. 10; controversial commdr., Army of Va.) Autograph Letter, signed (“Jno Pope”). On letterhead of H.Q., Dept. of the N.W., Milwaukee , Wis.: 18 July, 1863; to Gov. Edward Salomon. 4to.; 1 ½ p. |
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A fascinating letter, written during the New York draft riots to the war governor of Wisconsin, relating to possible disturbances created by the impending enforcement of the conscription law (see O.R. Series 3, Vol. 3). Pope details a plan to bring veteran Wisconsin volunteers to Milwaukee under the guise of resting and recruiting the old regiments, but in reality to guard against civil resistance to the draft. Pope assures Salomon that “By the time the draft is ordered a sufficient force will be here to make resistance absurd and impossible.” In the event there were demonstrations in Milwaukee against the draft, resulting in over 100 arrests.
Boldly headed “Confidential”; lt. toning; very lt. ch. along right extremity, and at bottom of fold; two horiz. folds do not mar text; beginning to split at bottom of vert. fold; sl. smudges in his occasionally illegible hand, o/w bold/clean. Wonderful content.
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Price, Sterling (Maj. Genl., C.S.A.; famed for his Missouri raid; Battle of Iuka), Manuscript Ls datelined Hd. Qrs. Dist. Of the Tenn. , Tupelo , Miss. : 4 August 1862 ; to Maj. Gen. Earl Van Dorn. 4to.; 3p., signed with rank “Sterling Price / Maj. Genl / Cmdg”. |
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In this historically significant document (OR, Ser.1, Vol. 17, Part 1, p.120) General Price argues firmly that Van Dorn and his troops should cooperate in a movement from Tupelo into West Tennessee, while at the same time declining Van Dorn’s order/request that he reinforce General John C. Breckinridge’s attack on Baton Rouge.
Price argues that a movement into Tennessee complies with General Braxton Bragg’s wishes, and in his own inimitable style generously offers to place himself under his superior officer’s command provided Van Dorn carries out Price’s plan. The letter is one in a series in which Price, Van Dorn, and Bragg spar over competing strategies, while ultimately fumbling multiple opportunities to hurt their enemies. In the end, on the day after this letter was written, Breckinridge attacked alone and was defeated at Baton Rouge; soon after Price advanced upon Iuka alone and fell back after bloody fighting; and the cooperative movement of Van Dorn and Price, initiated far too late, ended in bloody and decisive defeat at Corinth.
A very clean document in a handsome and readable aide’s hand; strong signature with rank – excellent condition. A fascinating piece of the history of the War in the West.
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Sheridan, Phil (Union General) Book from his library: Anderson, Thomas M., Lt. Col. U.S.A. THE POLITICAL CONSPIRACIES PRECEDING THE REBELLION, OR THE TRUE STORIES OF SUMTER AND PICKENS. NY: 1882; 100p. |
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Signed on the front fly: “Lt. Gen. P. H. Sheridan” and paraph underneath.
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THE VERY FIRST MENTION OF CONFEDERATES ENTERING PENNSYLVANIA
An Alarm Bell on the Potomac: Lee Crosses the River!
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Tyler, Daniel (Brig. Gen. , U.S.A.; fought at First Bull Run; commanded Harper’s Ferry during Gettysburg campaign). Partially printed document, United States Military Telegraph form. Md. Heights , June 23, 1863 . 2p., 8vo. |
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BY RECEIPT OF THIS TELEGRAM GENERAL JOSEPH HOOKER LEARNED THAT ROBERT E. LEE’S CONFEDERATE ARMY WAS CROSSING THE POTOMAC AND INVADING THE NORTH. Gen. Tyler reports in part “The troops that were at Sharpsburg yesterday have all left – the infantry and artillery for Hagerstown and the cavalry for Frederick … The signal officer just reports that the atmosphere is clear, and that he can see a line of troops ten or twelve (12) miles long moving from the direction of Berryville toward Shepardstown Ford. It looks as if Lee’s movement is toward Hagerstown and in Pennsylvania …” (OR I, Vol. 27, p.27). This is the received copy of Tyler ’s telegram, signed by the receiving clerk, and endorsed in pencil “Recd / 11:30 am / 23” . Tyler ’s outgoing telegram was sent at 10:00.
Punch holes from orig, letter book at top and left margin; ch. at extrems. with no loss. An important link in the chain of communication leading to Gettysburg , just one week later. |
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Autographs, Documents and Manuscripts
We have numerous examples of Lincoln’s writing and signatures in stock, at various price levels. Presently: signatures are $4,900–7,900; legals run from $4,700-13,500; commissions, appointments, and endorsements from $6,500-12,500; and letters are $27,500 and up. Some are on our web site; many are not – please inquire. |
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Lincoln, Abraham (16th President) Autograph Letter, signed “A Lincoln ”. Washington: 18 September 1861. 8vo.; 1p. On plain paper, which the President heads “ Executive Mansion .” Museum mounted/framed w/ albumen carte de visite of Lincoln, known as the “solitary pine” image (O-86). |
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Lincoln writes to Secretary of State William Seward that “Senator (Samuel) Pomeroy wishes Antonia Berchignani to be Sec. of Legation to Rome . Let it be so, unless you know some strong objection. / Yours truly / A. Lincoln.”
On a day the Cabinet met and Lincoln urged the secretaries of war and the navy to send Gen. Thomas Sherman off on an expedition that eventually took Port Royal , the President is still concerning himself with foreign consulates and legations. Pomeroy had been a Kansas Free-State advocate and U.S. Senator, aligned with the Radicals in opposition to Lincoln (he later promoted Samuel Chase for president in 1864). It is unlikely that this appointment was given to Pomeroy’s man.
The cdv has a rich tonality and bears a Brady backmark. The letter’s ink has lightened slightly, as the original iron gall solution had more water in it than usual; there’s a horizontal fold going through Lincoln ’s sig; but the letter is easily readable and the whole is quite handsome. |
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(--) Autograph Letter, signed (“A . Lincoln ”). Executive Mansion, Wash.: 26 December, 1862; to Secretary of War Edwin Stanton. 8vo.; 1p. |
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On December 7, 1862, Confederate cavalry raider John Hunt Morgan attacked an isolated Union garrison at Hartsville, TN, and captured the entire garrison of almost 2,000 soldiers. This minor embarrassment to National arms ended up causing Abraham Lincoln much trouble. A piqued president scolded his senior general, Henry W. Halleck, “What on earth an isolated Brigade was doing there I cannot conceive…” The Hartsville debacle turned up to annoy Lincoln again two weeks later, and he here writes: “Two Ohio regiments and one Illinois regiment were captured at Hartsville, have been paroled, and are not at Columbus Ohio. This brings the Ohio regiments substantially to their homes. I am strongly impressed with the belief that the Illinois regiment better be sent to Illinois, where it will be recruited and put in good condition, by the time they are exchanged, so as to9 re-enter the service. They did not misbehave, as I am satisfied; so they should receive no treatment, nor have anything withheld from them, by way of punishment.” (Basler, VI, 20). The 104 th Ill. Vol. Inf. was transferred on parole at Camp Douglas, Chicago.
Read a more detailed description here.
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(--) Autograph Signature “A. Lincoln” framed with an 1861 Currier & Ives hand-colored inauguration print. Museum mounted and framed; 14-1/2” x 20” overall. |
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The print, intended for sale at Lincoln’s inauguration as president, has been cut down to the oval image of Lincoln , but retains all its color vibrancy.
The ink signature is clear and bold. See a close-up at the click-thru. |
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(--) Lincoln, Abraham. Partly printed document signed ("Abraham Lincoln"), as President. Washington, 20 January 1865. 1 page, 4to, names of the pardon recipients accomplished in a clerical hand. |
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"I hereby authorize and direct the Secretary of State to affix the Seal of the United States to a Warrant for the pardon of H. W. Pryor, James Pryor and W. L. Ringo.” The 1860 census identifies two of these Kentuckians: Ringo, a 38-year old merchant; and H. W. Pryor, a 51-year old "hogfeeder").
Students of Lincoln 's exercise of the pardoning power have noted "that Lincoln was sympathetic toward petitioners from Kentucky" as a way of strengthening Union sentiment in that crucial border state (Ruckman and Kincaid, Inside Lincoln's Clemency Decision Making).
A fine example with Lincoln 's full presidential signature. |
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(--) Lincoln, Abraham (1809-1865) & Mary (1818-1882). Autograph Signatures “A. Lincoln” (on blue paper) & “Mary Lincoln” (on beige, lined paper). With contemporary albumen carte-de-visite images placed in period mounts. 16-3/4” H x 13-1/2” W x 2” D. |
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Each signature is affixed to an original c-d-v album page holder, just below the c-d-v window opening, which feature a red boarder and stars. [Each page is 5 x 6-3/8 inches.] A period albumen c-d-v images of Abraham (vignetted O-92 by Berger, 9 February 1864 ) and Mary (ML-O-24, c1864) are placed in the page windows, set back for a feeling of depth.
Museum-grade mounting in a simple, but elegant period-looking black and gold frame; a gold filet surrounds the album pages, producing a frame within a frame. The whole creates a visually satisfying display. The ink signatures are each classic, clear, and bold. Much brighter is person; deeply framed so it is difficult to get a bright and clear photograph. |
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"The Avenger" Gets His Reward
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(--) Partly Printed Document Signed, as President, countersigned by Sec. of War Edwin M. Stanton. Washington , D.C. , 21 February 1862 . F.; 1 p. Approx. 25- x 22 in .; framed. |
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A military appointment for Francis E. Brownell as 1st Lt., 11th U.S. Infantry, effective 24 October 1861. Brownell, originally a private in Co. A of Ellsworth’s 11th New York “Fire Zouaves,” was awarded a Medal of Honor in 1877 for having killed James T. Jackson, Elmer Ellsworth’s assassin.
Ellsworth was almost like a son to Lincoln, and we can only imagine his thoughts as he signed this commission! In the wake of his chief’s martyrdom Brownell became a folk hero for the North, celebrated in verse and song:
“Then the fearless Brownell, when he saw his leader fall, He rushed up to the traitor, and through his brain he sent a ball; Then with his bayonet bright, he run him through and through, And vowed that was the way he’d treat the whole Secession crew.”
--- Wm. Sutherland, Assassination of Colonel Ellsworth (circa 1861).
Clean w/ usual folds that do not mar sigs.; lt. ch. across top of doc and on top of vert. fold; both signatures are clear. Scanned through a frame, it is brighter than it appears.
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Lincoln Legal Pieces
| (--) (Legal) Autograph Document,
signed (“Lincoln & Herndon p.q.”). N.p., n.d. (1850’s),
on a sheet about 8 x 3.25 in. |
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Price: $6,250.00 |
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A handsome example, dating to the time of Lincoln’s law partnership
with William Herndon.
He writes: “Clerk will issue process in the
above entitled cause in assumpsit – Damage $1500.00.” This
praecipe (a directive to a court clerk) was accomplished on behalf of a
client (“p.q.” = pro quorentum, “for the plaintiff”),
and would have originally been attached to or been endorsed on a written
complaint.
Insignificant dust-soiling, handling marks at marg. extremities;
writing strong and clear; ideal for framing.
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| (--) (--) Autograph Letter, signed (“Logan & Lincoln”). Springfield: 24 December 1842. To Friend Briggs. Octavo; 1p. A Trespass case of HALL v. BRIGGS [Tazewell County Circuit Court, April, 1843]. |
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Price: $6,500.00 |
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Hall recovered a judgment against the Steamboat Fayette for $169.39. The court issued an execution and attachment on the steamboat, but the owners never satisfied the judgment. Hall sued Briggs in an action of trespass on the case for neglecting his duty as sheriff by allowing the steamboat to leave without satisfying the execution.
Briggs retained Lincoln and pleaded not guilty. The court ruled for Hall and awarded him $197.27. In this letter prior to the court case and signed with his firm name, Lincoln responds to Briggs, asking if “your levy on Hall's land” had been executed. “Did we order that execution? Our recollection is that we did not. Mr. Hall was to give us an order to draw some rent coming to him in this town, and we were to stay the execution. He has not sent us the order yet. Tell him to send us the order immediately, & dismiss the levy.”
Lincoln 's ink writing is bold and clear; usual folds, one with toning; lt. ch. of edges; toned corner away from writing; corners spot pasted to backing sheet (could be removed). |
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Lincoln Assassination, Conspirators, Funerals and Mourning Items
(Other Areas of the site have similar items as well. For Books, visit the Rare Book Section, for Prints,
visit the Prints, Painting and Sculpture Section)
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(--) (Conspirators)
(Booth, John Wilkes) Signed Stage Script (prompt pamphlet) for The Son of the Night: A Drama in Three Days: and Prologue by Charles Gayler. N.Y.: (1857); plain wrappers.
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A volume from “French’s Standard Drama” series.
Signed “J W Booth” vertically on the left side of the title page. The play dates from Booth’s “apprentice” years on Baltimore and Richmond stages in the late 1850s. In folding solander case with gilt descriptive label on cover. Provenance: Joseph A. Booth (youngest brother of Wilkes) family; Charles Hamilton Autographs, Inc.; John Lattimer. |
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(--)
(--) (--) [Newspaper] DAILY UNION /
EXTRA! / Thursday April 17, 11 A.M. / BOOTH KILLED! / HAROLD
CAPTURED!.... 2.5 x 4.5 inches (sight); matted and framed with
copy photos of period cartes de visite of Booth and a memorial
to the murdered Lincoln, 11 x 15 inches (overall). |
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A scarce newspaper extra, hawked on the streets to get people
to purchase a newspaper with the latest news – in this
case, the details of Booth’s death.
It reprints the telegraph
text by Secretary of War E. M. Stanton from the War Department: “To
Maj. Gen. Dix: -- J. Wilkes Booth and Harrold (sic) were chased
from a swamp in St. Mary’s County, Md. , to Garrett’s
Farm near Port Royal on the Rappahannock by Col. Baker’s
forces. The barn in which they took refuge was fired. Booth
was shot and killed, and Harold captured. Booth’s body
and Harold are now here.”
An exciting memento from a
most emotional moment for the country, which was aching
for his capture. |
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( --) (--) (--) Harper's Weekly. April 29, 1865. Vol. IX No. 435. |
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Entire Edition of the Harper's Weekly for the week of April 29, 1865. Cover story features John Wilkes Booth. Centerfold is Liberty mourning at the casket of Lincoln. Other illustations include The Siege of Mobile, Destruction of the Tim Clad, Mushroom Anchor Torpedos, Landing of the National Forces at Fish River, Sherman's Army and Paris Fashions for April. Also and ad for the first volume of Napoleon III's book on the History of Julius Caesar.
Very good, usual edge browning, minor tears at bottom not affecting text or graphics. |
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(--)
(--) (Surratt, John / St. Marie, Henride) Manuscript Received Telegram, written and signed for William H. Seward in a clerical hand. N.p.: 5 February [1867], to the U.S. Consul at Nice “By Cable.” 1 pg., 8 x 3.5 in . |
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An order to: "Buy tickets for Surratt [lined out; "St. Marie" inserted] and send him forward by first steamer for New York or Boston. Your account will be paid."
The error naming "Surratt" is an interesting slip, since he was at the moment aboard the U.S.S. Swatara, soon to land in Washington. Surratt claimed to have been in Elmira , N.Y. when he learned that Booth had murdered Lincoln; he fled at once to Canada, thence Italy, where he joined the Papal Zouaves. There he was recognized by fellow soldier Henri de St. Marie, a French Canadian who had met him in Maryland (their introductory acquaintance, Louis Weichmann, claimed that St. Marie purposely trailed Surratt from Canada, lured by the $25,000 reward then on his head). For informing on Surratt, the American government secured St. Marie's release from the Zouaves, paid him a reduced reward, and -- by this order -- brought him to the United States to testify in Surratt's trial for the murder of Lincoln, which ended with a hung jury and the conspirator's release. Consul Aldis, of Vermont, became a Southern Claims Commissioner in 1873.
Half inch tear at top; o/w excellent. |
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( --) (--) Reward Broadside War Department, Washington, April 20, 1865 / $100,000 REWARD! / THE MURDERER / Of our late beloved President Abraham Lincoln, / IS STILL AT LARGE…. Washington, DC: 1865. Approximately 24 x 12-1/2 inches. |
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The last issue of this famed reward broadside, without photos (as issued) and with the additional descriptive line about Booth’s heavy black moustache: “…which there is some reason to believe has been shaved off.”
Booth was captured and shot so quickly after this broadside was printed, that no photos were ever attached. David Harold was captured at the Garrett Farm, abandoning the burning barn where he and Booth had holed up. John Surratt, a Confederate mail currier, had fled to Canada , escaping certain prison time or death; two years later he was captured and tried, but walked because of a hung jury. Surratt’s mother, Mary, was hanged along with Harold, Lewis Powell, and George Atzerodt.
Professionally restored, repairing fold separations and filling in some small areas of loss; tissue-backed; two unobtrusive embossed library stamps. Handsomely framed with museum mounting and Perhaps the most dramatic relic of the assassination. |
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(--) (Funeral) (Philadelphia, PA) Black-bordered printed broadside, headed in bold letters “FUNERAL HONORS / TO THE / LATE PRESIDENT.” N.p. (Philadelphia, Pa. ); 6 x 18.5 in. |
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Detailed text furnishes “final and corrected arrangements” for the 20 April 1865 Philadelphia funeral procession of Pres. Lincoln, noting that its point of assembly will be Independence Hall. Scores of individuals and organizations are named as participants; the route is given, as is a list of the city’s pallbearers for the event. Signed in type by J.R. Ingersoll, Chief Marshal, and his aides.
Some very faint marg. aging, one sharp central horiz. fold, lt. toning on blank verso; overall remarkably fine and fresh for such oversized ephemera.
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(--) (--) (Washington, DC)
ORDER OF THE PROCESSION…. [ Washington , D.C. : 19 April 1865 ] Handbill; 5-3/4 x 9-1/4 in. |
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A black-bordered handbill listing the order of the funeral procession, starting with various military regiments, followed by the hearse, various representatives and senators, military leaders (e.g. Grant and Farragut), family members, President Andrew Johnson and his cabinet, clergy, and more. “Citizens and Strangers” bring up the rear.
V.g.+ |
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(--) (Mourning) HAND-PAINTED LINCOLN MEMORIAL FAN. Open-work, embossed aluminum commemorative fan, c1866, designed by August Edouard Achille Luce, maker Bart & Crespo de Borbon, Habana-Paris (perhaps a Cuban firm doing business in Mexico, Central America, Spain, and the U.S., for these were the markets for which these fans were made). Approx. 22 x 10 in. when opened, w/ original tassel.
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THE 2 GUARDS AND 9 STICKS of the fan are of cast aluminum, a product then only 10-years old and considered a precious metal. The sticks are enhanced with medallions supported by American eagles, terminating in the form of a star. The Guards are unique, being made for Central American women to us for defense: one guard conceals a 4” blade, which can be slid back out of sight or pressed forward if needed; while at the base, a small container with a hinged top was for concealing poison. THE MEDALLIONS were to have, on both sides, photographs of reigning queens of Europe (Holland can still be seen over one oval). THE 3” LITHOGRAPHED AND PAINTED PAPER FAN-LEAF, on the recto, has a painted portrait of Lincoln, surrounded by angels and cherubs, two columns topped by American eagles, and photographic reproductions of a Spanish song w/ music, “Cancion a Abraham Lincoln.” On the verso are 5 scenes: of Booth conspiring with others; shooting Lincoln; the stage of Ford’s Theatre during the performance of “Our American Cousin;” Booth escaping on horseback; and his death in the burning Garrett barn. Small images of demons surround these scenes. At the ends are scenes of the “Monitor and Merimac” and of Richmond burning, “ 3 April 1865.” WORTH NOTING are the eagles on the recto holding banners inscribed “The patent plated fan” (the Cuban maker had bought the rights from an American firm); and a series of devils that provide separating elements between the oval assassination scenes.
As far as Victorian mourning items, this is one of the most lovely display pieces found. In character, composition, and technique the lithographs on both sides convey not even the faintest suggestion of European taste; but are, indeed, distinctively American and could almost have emerged from the presses of Currier and Ives. There is a long tradition of producing women's fans with American presidents or patriotic themes as subject matter, beginning with a French-made fan celebrating Thomas Jefferson's 1801 Inauguration. In terms of its elaborate construction, beautiful and detailed vignettes, and superb condition, this is surely the finest example of this genre which we have encountered. Simply magnificent.
In excellent, bright condition, with only a few small unobtrusive tears. An extremely scarce and desirable momento of our 16th president’s death, and the emotion engendered.
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(--) (--) (Folk Art) Watercolor of a Freed Slave Mourning the Death of Lincoln. 10 1/2 x 9 in c1865. |
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Period, original watercolor with a mourning border, of a freedmna mourning at Lincoln's Tomb, topped with an urn bearing a Lincoln image, below which is drawn "ABRAHAM LINCOLN OUR NATION HAS LOST ITS FATHER 1809-1865."
This "Schoolhouse" style folk art watercolor is on manila paper, matted and handsomely framed to 16 x 15 in.
A touching image with a wonderful use of colors.
Excellent. |
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(--) (--) Mourning Jewelry. Hand-Carved, Ivory Mourning Locket in Commemoration of Abraham Lincoln. [N.p.: Circa 1865]. Approx. 1-3/4 x 1/25 in. |
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This beautifully carved locket is a unique piece of jewelry, used during the mourning period for the murder of our 16th president.
The upside-down rose, a Victorian symbol of mourning, is attached to the petal-design ivory backing by an ivory peg. The rose slides away from the back, revealing an albumen photo of Lincoln, The backing features a decorative oval brass rope-design border. The chain is celluloid, a modern synthetic first created in the late 1850s.
The image was taken by Anthony Berger at Brady’s Washington gallery on 9 February 1864 (O-92). |
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(--) (--)
Mourning Order. Printed Circular Letter from the Treasury Department, signed in facsimile by Secretary Hugh McCulloch, one page, 7.5" x 9", within narrow black mourning borders, Washington , D.C. , 17 April 1865 . |
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"It is hereby ordered that, in honor to the memory of our late illustrious Chief Magistrate, all officers and others subject to the orders of the Secretary of the Treasury, wear crape upon the left arm for the period of six months." Beginning as a bank cashier in Fort Wayne, Indiana, McCulloch rose to be Comptroller of the Currency under Salmon P. Chase and was appointed Lincoln's third Secretary of the Treasury barely a month before the assassination. He was among the Cabinet members who visited the President's deathbed at the Peterson House, and continued in office under Andrew Johnson, briefly serving again (1884-85) under Chester Arthur.
Mounting remnants on left side of front and right side of back, though it does not affect the text. Fine. Once owned by the great Lincoln collector Oliver Barrett. |
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Cabinet Members, Elections and Inagurations
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(Lincoln Cabinet Members) Cameron, Simon ( Lincoln’s 1st Sec. War, subsequently made Minister to Russia) Autograph Letter, signed. “Coleman’s Hotel”: 4 March 1847; to W.L. Marcy. 4to.; 1p. |
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“My friend Mr. H.E. Lemon of Lancaster wishes to buy some condemned machinery at Harper’s Ferry, which cannot be sold till next fall, unless you will give a special order. I hope you will be able to gratify him…” Marcy, himself Secretary of War at this time, invented the concept of the “spoils system”, a tool adroitly used by Cameron to build a political machine in his native Pennsylvania . An interesting reference to the federal arsenal at Harper’s Ferry, (W.) Va. , which was the focal point of John Brown’s raid a dozen years later.
Very narrow marg. toning; old folds; last letter of sig. faintly brushed by Cameron; overall fine appearance
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(--) (Stanton, Edwin M. ) Autograph Note, signed, as Sec. of War. No place or date; about 3.5 x 2 in. |
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Doubtless penned during the Civil War, and cut from a larger document. In full: “The Secretary does not deem it expedient to permit Col. Sewell to visit Washington for the purpose within mentioned but on the contrary thinks it highly injurious to the service to grant such applications.” This likely refers to William J. Sewell, Irish-born Colonel of the 5 th N.J. and later of the 38 th N.J., who was brevetted Brig. Gen. for Chancellorsville and years later awarded a Medal of Honor for the same battle (having rallied “around his colors a mass of men from other regiments” and led them “through several hours of desperate conflict, remaining in command though wounded and inspiring them by his presence and the gallantry of his personal example”).
Stanton has made light smudges and fingermarks on the bottom few lines and upon his sig., which is rather cramped for space; still all is quite readable. Some very lt. soiling; tipped to part of an old album page with a bust ¾ profile engraving.
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(--) (--) Autograph Addressed Envelope bearing a Free Frank, Signed in full. War Department / Official Business / (signature) / Secretary of War. |
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An official envelope, franked by Stanton as secretary of war and addressed by him to Hon. John H. Clifford / Willard's Hotel / No 11.
With an engraved period portrait by J. Rogers, after a Mathew Brady photograph.
Lt. toning; few small stains; else excellent. |
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(--) (--) Albumen Carte de Visite, signed “Edwin M Stanton” in bold ink. [ Washington ]: E. Anthony from a Brady negative. |
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A “from life” three-quarter image that has wonderful, deep toning. Stanton is surprisingly scarce in signed photos.
Excellent. |
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Lincoln, Abraham Partly Printed DS, for Abraham Lincoln by “W. O. Stoddard”, secretary. Washington , D.C. : 11 June 1861 . Obl. giant fol.; 1p.; blind-embossed Genl. Land Office white wafer seal at lower left; a handsome American flag above. |
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An unusual land grant, being for 160 acres “in the District of Lands subject to sale at Springfield , Illinois ,” Lincoln ’s home town.
Issued to a widow of corporal from the War of 1812. The signer, William O. Stoddard, an Illinois journalist (supposedly the first to endorse Lincoln for the Presidency), was Lincoln’s “land grant secretary” prior to a long career as an author of histories and books for boys.
Age-toned; one marginal bleached spot.; and two insignificant; else excellent.. |
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(1860 Campaign) [Broadside] NATIONAL REPUBLICAN PLATFORM ADOPTED BY THE NATIONAL REPUBLICAN CONVENTION, HELD IN CHICAGO, MAY 17, 1860. Chicago: Press & Tribune Office, (1860). 8-1/4 x 13.5 in.; 1p.; black border. |
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This handsome broadside sports a beautiful image of Liberty holding a union shield and “liberty cap” on a pole, sitting next to an American eagle with spread wings. Below is the full Republican platform as adopted in the “Wigwam” convention that nominated Abraham Lincoln for president. Beginning with “The Republican Party” and “Its Fundamental Principles,” 17 short, titled paragraphs cover the various issues of the platform, including: State Sovereignty; the Democratic party’s Sectionalism and Extravagance and Corruption; Popular Sovereignty; the Admission of Kansas; and the African Slave Trade. Since Whigs made up much of the new Republican Party, the platform also covered issues important to them: Encouragement of American Industry; Free Homesteads; River and Harbor Improvements; and A Pacific Railroad.
Excellent and of fresh appearance; folds; some v. lt. wrinkling; two small stains at the bottom edge. Quite scarce; not listed in Chicago Ante-Fire Imprints 1851-1871.
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(--).
Campaign Ribbon, silk. Approx. 8 x 3 in. Lincoln ’s image is based on Samuel M. Fassett’s photograph taken in Chicago, October 4, 1859 (O-16). |
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A facsimile of his signature appears below, with the penciled names of subsequent owner/users.
Very good; handsomely museum matted. These silk ribbons remain unusual and scarce, as they were so easily damaged. |
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(--) Union Ticket / For President / Abraham Lincoln / For Vice President, / Andrew Johnson / For Electors for President and Vice President, …. Circa 1864 in Illinois. Approx. 2-5/8 x 6-3/4 inches. |
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Very good; sm. hole at bottom margin. |
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(Lincoln Electoral Tickets] Two Electoral Tickets from Illinois, 1860 and 1864 respectively: REPUBLICAN TICKET for Lincoln & Hamlin, with Richard Yates for Governor (2 x 6.25 in.); UNION TICKET for Lincoln & Johnson, with Richard Oglesby for Governor (2.5 x 6.75 in.). |
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It is quite uncommon to find electoral tickets for Lincoln’s home state; even more unusual to discover one from each presidential election! 1860.
Folds, repaired on verso, with toning; 1864 has a small hole at the bottom, barely affecting only one small word. A unique combination. |
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(--) (1864 Campaign) “National Union Ticket” broadside, decorated at top with a wood engraving of an eagle clutching a U.S. flag and a ribbon inscribed “Lincoln & Johnson.” About 6 x 14. |
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An unusually large example, listing presidential electoral candidates for Massachusetts (among them John G. Whittier, poet/abolitionist, and Edward Everett, Gettysburg’s “other orator”) plus state office-seekers, chief among them the great war Governor John A. Andrew (who was up for re-election).
V. lt. fox; clean horiz. tear across middle, separating candidates Oliver Warner and Henry K. Oliver; else very nice, a clean document. |
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(1865 Inaguration)
Official engraved invitation to the “National Inauguration Ball. / March 4th, 1865 .” 4to., 1p., on light card stock. |
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Illustrated w/beribboned fasces, two eagles (one holding a snake in its beak; the other, arrows and an olive branch) and bust portraits of Lincoln and V.P. Andrew Johnson. Over 150 ball “managers” are listed, many honorary, incl. Genls. Grant, Sherman, Sheridan, Hancock and Doubleday.
Unissued; handling mark; one corner chip and small rubs to other corners still of very nice appearance for these. |
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| (Gettysburg Address) ORDER OF PROCESSION FOR….(and) PROGRAMME OF ARRANGEMENTS AND ORDER OF EXCERCISES FOR THE INAUGURATION OF THE NATIONAL CEMETERY AT GETTYSBURG, PA. ON THE 19TH NOVEMBER, 1863 …. Washington: Gideon and Pearson, (c1863). 2p., both up; 10.5 x 8-3/8 in. |
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Price: $15,500.00 |
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The original handout given to those who attended the ceremonies dedicating the cemetery and hearing Lincoln give his “few appropriate remarks.” Signed in type by Lincoln ’s old Illinois friend, Ward H. Lamon, as Marshall in Chief. Unusually scarce, being on a thin, blue paper.
Very good, though a few wrinkles (could be flattened) and a tape stain on the lower right-hand corner. |
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Wax Impression of Lincoln's Presidential Seal. |
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Price: $1,500.00 |
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A 1.5" seal used for official documents. Patriotic Eagle surrounded by "President of the United States ".
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Lincoln Colleagues, Family & Friends Autographic and Ephemeral Items
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(--)
Whitney, Henry Clay. ADs “Lincoln & Whitney Attys for Deft”. N.P.: N.D. (Champaign Co., IL, April, 1857), 1p., oblong 8vo. |
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In Brock, Hays & Co. v. Illinois Central Rail Road, the defendants state “they did not undertake and promise in manner & form as the said plaintiffs have… complained against them…” Records show that this suit involved a shipment of hogs from Okaw , IL , to Chicago . Because this journey took three times longer than usual, in extremely cold weather, many hogs died and the remainder were seriously underweight upon arrival. A jury awarded plaintiffs $860.25 in damages. On appeal to the state Supreme Court Lincoln unsuccessfully contended that the damages assessed against the railroad were excessive. In Whitney’s hand.
Corner nipped; usual toning and two horiz. lines; else clean. From collection of noted Springfield manuscript dealer King Hostick w/ his penciled notation.
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(--) [Ellsworth, Elmer]
Post-Assassination Brass Pin bearing Ellsworth’s image, “Champion” written below. |
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A drill team championship pin, in honor of one who won many such drills. Hand-painted; “N.Y.F(ire). Zouaves” on the side.
Of stamped brass with details highlighted in red, white, and blue paint.
Very good, minor chipping to paint.
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(--) (--)
Patriotic Earrings bearing the word “ Union .” |
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Stamped from brass, hand painted.
Very good, minor chipping to paint. |
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(--) (--)
Patriotic Flag Pin w/ a “Liberty Cap” on the pole |
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Stamped from brass, hand painted.
Very good, minor chipping to paint. |
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(--) Lincoln, Mary. Signed Copy of The Complete Poems of Jean Ingelow ( Boston: 1871). Neatly signed on preliminary page "Mary Lincoln / March 1872." |
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Original decorated brown leather; raised bands.
Edges of binding quite rubbed, particularly along the spine; text block faintly age-toned, some marginal discoloration, but sound and overall very good. Books from Mary’s library are desirable and scarce. |
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(--) Lincoln, Robert Todd (eldest son of Abraham & Mary) Manuscript Letter, signed “Robert Lincoln” as Secretary of War. War Department / Washington City: 14 February 1884. 4to.; 2-1/3p. |
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A Mr. William Goodman in Chicago had requested that a missing volume 6 of the Official Records of the War of the Rebellion (131 vol. set) be replaced. Lincoln writes that he should go to the Chicago post office “relative to the non-receipt of the volume,” for “the Department has no authority” to replace a volume that has “miscarried in the mails.” The book, he continues, can be purchased for 80 cents at the Public Printer.
V.g. |
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(--)
) Ls “Robert Lincoln” in bold ink. Pullman Building, Chicago: 14 November 1905. 8vo.; 1p. |
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To Frederick H. Meserve. In a nice association, Robert writes to this famous Lincoln photograph collector and author: “I have your note of November eleventh enclosing a picture of Hugh McCullough. I am very much obliged to you for your courtesy in sending it and enclose herewith One Dollar in currency to reimburse you for the amount paid for it.”
One of Meserve’s cdv albumen facsimiles of McCullough (Secretary of Treasury in Lincoln ’s shortened second term), taken from the original plate, is included.
Very good. |
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(--) [Todd and Edwards Families] Charles Dresser. AES, two lines at foot of a partly printed marriage license accomplished and signed by Sangamon County Clerk C. R. Matheny. Springfield , Ill. , 21 May 1839. Issued to William S. Wallace (the brother-in-law for whom the Lincolns named their beloved son "Willie") and Frances J. Todd (Mary’s sister). 1p.; 6.5" x 7.5" |
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Dresser's endorsement certifies that their marriage was "Solemnized by me on the day and date above written."
Identical in style to the license that was issued in November 1842 to Abraham Lincoln and Mary Todd, whose marriage was also solemnized by Dresser. Of course, the Rev. Dresser is also the one who sold his house to the Lincolns in 1844. The clerk who signs, Charles Matheny, was the father of Lincoln's friend James, best man at the Lincoln ’s wedding. Wallace sometimes acted as family physician for the Lincolns and was given an Army paymastership by the president during the Civil War.
Two horizontal folds; one chip at edge; Lt soil; else excellent, with dark ink.. Together with: E. S. Brown Autograph Letter Signed, n.p. [ Springfield ?]: 1895. 4p., 3.5" x 5.5". Brown thanks "Cousin Al" (Albert S. Edwards, custodian of the Lincoln's home 1897-1915) for a copy of Historical Sketches of the Edwards and Todd Families, praising their research and the "sweet style in which Georgie" (Albert's daughter) has written them. "The Todds are a proud race you know, nor is their pride based on wealth, but upon the rarer, richer qualities which go to make up the man." Toned on last page; else very good. Provenance through the Phil Sang and John Lattimer collections |
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(--) Speed, John Smith (Kentucky Unionist, merchant) Autograph Letter, signed (“J. Smith Speed”) on letterhead of the Talmage Lake Ice Co., Louisville: 20 May 1884; to John D. Miller. 1p. |
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John was a younger brother of the two Speeds prominent in Abraham Lincoln’s life: Joshua Fry, Lincoln’s most intimate friend,”and James, Lincoln’s last attorney general (visit the Lincoln Cabinet section above for James Speed). Here John acknowledges a postcard sent to Joshua and sends (not present) a requested pamphlet as well as an “autograph cut from an old check...Joshua has been dead more than two years. His wife had the lecture published for...his friends.” The lecture pamphlet referred to is Joshua’s Reminiscences of Abraham Lincoln...(M1005).
On thin paper; vert. fold split (clear of sig.) repaired on verso, but breaking again at margins; sm. marg. tear (no losses); light offsetting from dark ink. A scarce autograph!
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Lincoln, Lincoln Family and Friends
Photographica and Portraiture:
For Additional Lincoln Images,
visit LincolnPix and
the Prints,Paintings and Sculpture Section
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(Lincoln, Abraham) (Photographica) [Alexander Hesler] George Ayers. ALBUMEN PHOTOGRAPH, taken from the original Hesler glass plate negative, c1880s. Signed on verso, “Copyright / Geo. B. Ayers / Phila.” 6-3/4” x 8-5/8” on original mount. [O-27] |
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Ayers had purchased Hesler’s studio and later sold it, taking with him the glass plates for this sitting. In the 1880s, John Nicolay and John Hay asked to use this pose as a frontispiece, thus becoming instantly famous. Of this image Lincoln commented, “It looks better and it expresses me better than any I have seen; if it pleases the people I am satisfied.”
Ayers made copies for sale and they sold well; but rarely do they come to us of this fine a quality, being clear and with a rich, almost chocolate tonality. |
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(--) (--)
German, Christopher S. [ Springfield, IL Photographer] Albumen Photograph of Abraham Lincoln. Springfield, IL: January, 1861. [O-42] Oval, 7-1/2 x 5-1/2 in (sight); 13 x 10 in (overall, in oval contemporary frame w/ new oval mat).
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Sunday, 13 January 1861, Ohio sculptor Thomas Dow Jones (1811-1881) asked Abraham Lincoln to accompany him to the photographic gallery of Christopher German.
Located on the West side of the Springfield Public Square, the gallery was only a few doors away from the Lincoln/Herndon Law Office and directly across the Old State Capitol. Jones had come to town in order to make a bust of the President-Elect. German took two almost identical negatives, designated as O41 and O42 in Lloyd Ostendorf’s definitive catalog of Lincoln images, Lincoln’s Photographs: A Complete Album. . They became the first photographs of Lincoln with a full beard.
A young New York girl, Grace Bedell, had urged Lincoln to “let your whiskers grow,” and Lincoln answered that “people would call it a piece of silly affectation.” But he bowed to current fashion, “puttin’ on (h)airs” as a newsman remarked.
Photographs from this sitting are almost impossible to obtain, even though Lincoln himself regarded it highly, as a signed presentation print exists. There are but three prints known from the first portrait (O41).
Though the original backing is trimmed to near the original albumen (in order to fit the frame), the print retains its excellent tonality and the eyes remain piercing. |
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(--)
(Lincoln and Tad) ALBUMEN PHOTOGRAPH, on original card mount w/ printed title “Prest.
Lincoln and son ‘Tad.’”, credit “Brady & Co.,
Photographers.”, and Brady’s 1865 copyright. Print about
3-5/8 x 4-5/8 inches, on card 7-6/8 x 9-6/8 inches. [O-93] |
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A rare original oval vignetted print of the famous pose which shows
a bespectacled Lincoln and his youngest son poring over a photo album.
This format is particularly scarce and desirable, as it is a larger
albumen and image than the more easily found carte-de-visite layout!
Originally taken by Anthony Berger at Mathew Brady’s Washington
gallery on 9 Feb. 1864, Lincoln later expressed apprehension lest this
image be misrepresented as himself and Tad studying the Bible. It is
one of several famous poses Berger took that day, including the so-called “$5
bill” portrait (see next) and the “penny profile”.
Print with a few scattered spots of foxing, not affecting visages;
mount slightly foxed, with very faint waterstain and unobtrusive creases
in left-side corners, none of which touch the print. Excellent tonality,
too. |
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(--) (--) SEPIA ALBUMEN
PHOTOGRAPH, on original card mount w/ printed title “PRESIDENT
LINCOLN AND HIS SON THADDEUS. / The last Photograph the President sat
for.”, taken by Alexander Gardner in his Washington, DC gallery
5 February 1865; on mount credited “G. F. Bouve & Co., Boston ” circa
1865. [O-114] In its original period frame. |
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This image was a product of Lincoln’s last formal sitting,
just ten weeks before the president was assassinated. Tad had accompanied
his father to Gardner’s gallery and this photograph became one
of the more enduring images.
The sylvan background was added as an ornamental in this large size,
which became quite popular at the time. |
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(Lincoln Photograph). Ninth-Plate Ruby Glass Ambrotype By Roderick A. Cole (attributed) Peoria, Illinois: O-14 (variant) circa 1858. |
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Housed in an 1865 period frame, with mourning ribbons setting off the ambrotype at the corners. The entire is in a specially designed purple velvet box, which also houses half of the original gutta purcha case for the image, with its cover glass and brass matt.
An image popularized on campaign ribbons and campaign button ferrotypes during the 1860 presidential campaign. Probably obtained during the campaign and then, after the assassination, removed from the half-case and switched to the frame. Mourning ribbons were added and the whole reverently hung on the wall as a memorial to the fallen leader.
A powerful reminder of the emotions Mr. Lincoln’s murder engendered. |
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(--). Tintype, (Maker Unknown), Approximately 3-1/4 x 2-1/4 inches. Ostendorf-6; Kunhardt-AL.1854.1 |
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From the Lost Original Daguerreotype by J. C. F. Polycarpus Von Schneidau; (Chicago: October 1854). Then fashioned into an Ambrotype by Samuel G. Alschular, (Chicago: July, 1858). The ambrotype is in the Abraham Lincoln Library and Museum, Springfield; and the other existing image, a faded salt print (probably made by Alschular), is at the Chicago History Museum. In fact, only two other 19th century images exist, in the form of cabinet cards.
Lincoln visited Chicago on October 27th and 28th of 1854 and spoke out against the possible extension of slavery resulting from the Kansas/Nebraska Act. It is logical that on October 27th, either before or after this important Chicago speech, Lincoln had the opportunity to have a photograph taken while in the company of George Schneider, who had invited Lincoln to speak and was the publisher of the German Whig newspaper, Illinois Staats Zeitung -- probably the original newspaper Lincoln is holding.
Many historians were misled by the newspaper that Lincoln holds in the photo. The words “PRESS AND TRIBUNE” clearly appear in it. The Chicago Press and Tribune was first published under that name on July 1, 1858 and the masthead was only used by until March 17, 1859. The newspaper heading type was added on the negative from which the salt print and the ninth plate ambrotype were made. The middle word “AND” is larger than the other names, and the entire title “PRESS AND TRIBUNE” is placed too low on the paper, conveniently positioned so that Lincoln’s fingers did not cover the masthead.
Probably George Schneider himself allowed the words to be changed at Joseph Medill’s request, for the Chicago Press and Tribune had the most to gain. Publisher Medill was a firm supporter of Lincoln in his quest for a Senate seat (and later for President), along with fellow anti-slavery publisher Schneider. In a clever marketing tactic, Joseph Medill most likely hoped to capitalize on the famous Lincoln holding the Tribune during the upcoming campaign for the Senate. |
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AN UNUSUAL SIZE -- WITH UNUSUAL CLARITY
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(Lincoln Home) [Whipple, John Adams – Photographer]Abraham Lincoln in Springfield [circa 1860] Imperial Albumen Photograph. Philadelphia: Charles Desilver, 1865. 13-1/4 x 10-3/8 in. image on 17 x 14-1/4 in. Printed mount. |
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Originally taken by Boston’s John Whipple in the summer of 1860, this is one of two he took of Lincoln and his children William (“Willie”) and Thomas (“Tad”). As a memorial to Lincoln’s memory directly after the assassination, Charles Desilver had permission to take a copy negative of Whipple’s original colodion glass, thus producing this important photograph. Desilver placed a handsome facsimile of Lincoln’s “Farewell Address to his Old Neighbors, Springfield, February 12, 1864” – so titled – at the bottom of the mount.
The emotion the nation experienced is reflected in this memorial photograph. Many prints, lithographs, and photos extolled Lincoln as a family man, such as this one; but the publisher added an emotional element here, by printing Lincoln’s soulful FarewellSpeech to his Springfield friends and neighbors, as he boarded the train to assume the Presidency. It’s made even more poignant by printing the speech in a Lincoln-esque script. The effect is quite appealing, yet its small imperial size gives the whole a great strength -- demanding attention.
The clarity is striking! Lincoln’s angular face is distinct, with shadowing clearly seen under his cheek bone. It is also quite unusual to view his left profile, done only one more time, by Gardner in 1863
The rusticness of Springfield is evident in the rutted, dirt streets…planks at the corners to walk across. Tad is seen climbing the corner fence post, while his brother, Willie, is staring directly at the camera, dutifully posing next to his father and jauntily wearing a tasseled cap. A neighborhood playmate of the Lincoln boys, Isaac Diller is seen, ghost-like, walking at the corner, not standing still for the full exposure time (both Lincoln and Willie grip the fence to maintain a rigid stance). Diller, who lived until 1943, explained that “I turned my head at the wrong moment to look at a farm wagon.”
This indeed is “ Lincoln at Home.” The only home he ever owned, purchased for $1,500 in 1844 from the Reverend Charles Dresser, an Episcopal rector who married the Lincolns in 1842.
Unusually large, with excellent condition, tonality, and clarity; a few scratches do not mar its power.
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(Lincoln Secretaries)
SEPIA ALBUMEN PHOTOGRAPH, on later card mount, with hand-written title, “Photo
from the original wet-plate taken by Brady November 8, 1863.” [ Washington , DC :
Alexander Gardner.] [O-76]. |
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A superb image of Lincoln and his private secretaries, John Nicolay
and John Hay. On this day, Hay wrote in his diary: “Went with
Mrs. Ames to Gardner’s Gallery & were soon joined by Nico
[Nicolay] and the Prest. We had a great many pictures taken…Nico & I
immortalized ourselves by having ourselves done in a group with the
Prest.”
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