A rare letter communicating the humanity of Lincoln… taking time to write to an elderly woman whose five grandsons served in the Union Army. A warm missive expressing gratitude for “knitting some 300 pairs of stockings” for the soldiers.

306. LINCOLN, Abraham. Autograph Letter Signed as President to Mrs. Ester Stockton of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; Executive Mansion, Washington, January 8, 1864. One page, quarto, on lined stationery, evenly toned, laid down on heavy card. In full:
“Madam, Learning that you who have passed the eighty-fourth year of life, have given to the soldiers some three hundred pairs of stockings, knitted by yourself, I wish to offer you my thanks. Will you also convey my thanks to those young ladies who have done so much in feeding our soldiers while passing through your City. Yours truly, A. Lincoln.“
The widow Stockton’s reply to President Lincoln’s expression of gratitude is dated August 5th and can now be found in the Lincoln Papers at the Library of Congress. Stockton modestly insisted that “my labors in behalf of our gallant soldiers I fear are somewhat exaggerated. I have endeavored to do what I could for those who battle to crush this wicked rebellion. Every grandson I have capable of bearing arms is now in the Army.” The elderly correspondent then details all five by their rank and regiment! She added “my earnest prayer for you is, that you may long be spared for the blessing of a grateful nation, when Freedom shall have enthroned herself truly over the entire land. Committing you to the care of our Heavenly Father…” Stockton’s account of her five grandsons in the Union army is quite reminiscent of the situation of the widow Bixby of Boston, who reportedly had lost five sons in the service. Lincoln’s letter to her, in November 1864, is perhaps the most famous of all his letters, even though John Hay later claimed to have composed it. But, the existence of that missive remains somewhat in doubt – facsimile copies have been reproduced from one of two forgeries since the 1880s. And the real Mrs. Bixby only lost two sons… the others proved to survive with two being deserters.
This evocative letter, published in Basler from a 1917 transcript (Collected Works, vol. 7, p. 117), has remained in the family of the recipient and passed down to each successive generation since it was penned. Ester Stockton was the aged widow of Reverend Joseph Stockton, a Presbyterian minister and principal at the Pittsburgh Academy. A fine letter that resonates with all the qualities of our greatest president. Certainly one of the finer bits of correspondence in private hands.
(Est. $40,000-60,000)
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307. LINCOLN, Abraham. Rare manuscript D.S. “Abraham Lincoln” as President, 1p. 4to., Washington, Mar. 13, 1863, an interim appointment to Lincoln’s cabinet: “George Harrington, is hereby appointed to discharge the duties of Secretary of the Treasury, during the absence of Salmon P. Chase, the Secretary”. Boldly signed, a slight smudge in the text with a bit of mat burn at extreme margins, overall very good. Such interim cabinet appointments by any president are rarely encountered. (Est. $7,500-8,500)
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Lincoln endorses a note sent for Andrew Johnson… the day before he is re-elected!
308. LINCOLN, Abraham. Autograph Endorsement Signed, 3 x 3 1/2″ from Military Governor and soon to be Vice President Andrew Johnson (written by his son as personal assistant and secretary who signs Johnson’s name on his behalf), to President Lincoln. Johnson endorses a letter from Edward W. East, Tennessee Secretary of State, asking that a Confederate soldier be allowed a return to his family in Tennessee: “Judge M. Lain Col. Wm. B. Stokes live in the regions of the state the prisoner does and both excellent gentlemen, Col. Stokes commands the 5 Tenn. Cav.” The endorsement, 7 x 1 3/4″ reads: “Executive Office Nashville, Tenn. Nov. 1st, 1864. Respy. forwarded & recommended for favorable consideration. Andrew Johnson Milt. Gov.” Below the endorsement, Lincoln writes in a tight, bold hand: “Let this man take the oath of Dec. 8, 1863 & be discharged. A. Lincoln Nov. 7, 1864.” Surrounded by beautiful, ornate frame, 12 x 13″. Lincoln’s note is written the night before he is re-elected President, handing George McCellan a resounding defeat. Light discoloration at lower left corner, minor smudges. Lincoln’s endorsement and signature are quite bold and distinct at the bottom of the document. (Est. $3,000-4,000)
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309. LINCOLN, Abraham. Signed Military Commission. “Know Ye, That reposing special trust and confidence in the patriotism, valor, fidelity, and abilities of Samuel S Carroll, I have nominated, and by and with the advice and consent of the Senate, do appoint him First Lieutenant in the tenth Regiment Infantry.” Document Signed “Abraham Lincoln” as President and “Simon Cameron” as Secretary of War; September 19, 1861, on vellum, with engravings of eagle and colors and equipment and with blue wafer seal of the War Office. Carroll received brevets for gallant and meritorious service at Chancellorsville, The Wilderness, Gettysburg, and Spottsylvania, rising to the rank of Major General of Volunteers. A fine example for a Gettysburg hero.
(Est. $5,500-7,000)
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The legal writings of Lincoln… a brief in his hand!
310. LINCOLN, Abraham. Autograph Document 7 3/4 x 12″, 1 page, March 20, 1850. Document submitted while Lincoln was in partnership with William Herndon. Sworn statement of John B. Thompson affirming that he was present during a land transfer between the “heirs of Payne and the heirs of Hall, was sold to Hall by Gatton, or rather was sold to Mitchell by Gatton…” you get the idea! Blue-lined paper, light feathering on Thompson’s signature, in extremely fine condition! A great example of Lincoln’s legal prose – despite the most tedious of cases! (Est. $3,200-3,800)
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A great, rare free frank of Abraham Lincoln, addressed in Mary Lincoln’s hand with her signature. The letter was most likely sent to the wife of a Confederate Ranger who was to be executed.
311. Legal-sized envelope, two thin tape strips on blank back at top, light typical age. Postal plug-canceled May 17, 1862, Washington, DC. The envelope addressed to a Mrs. John (the name “James” crossed-out and corrected with “John“) Spriggs of Springfield, IL was sent by Mary and free franked by President LIncoln in the top right corner. Under his name Priv. Sec. is scratched out. Around that time Captain John S. Spriggs and Captain Marshall Triplett of the Virginia Partisan Rangers guerillas, were being held awaiting trial at Camp Chase, Ohio. The two were to be executed and two Union prisioners had been selected for retaliation. Spriggs and Triplett were being treated like other prisoners of war. (Est. $12,000-14,000)
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312. LINCOLN, Abraham. Very early surname Autograph Signature (“Lincoln”), probably clipped from a ca 1840 legal document; with a printed return address envelope from Menard County circuit clerk and recorder Ross Nance, postmarked Petersburg, Ill., 2 June 1916, sent to Guy Shaw at Beardstown. Nance often gave turn-of-the-century Lincoln enthusiasts autographs from discarded files and correspondence of old Petersburg/New Salem area residents. This example is intriguing because the addressee, a one-term Congressman, is thought to have been related to J. Henry Shaw (1825-1885), Beardstown attorney and orator who helped prosecute the legendary Duff Armstrong murder case. Lincoln won the acquittal of Armstrong – son of his New Salem friends Jack and Hannah Armstrong – partly by using an almanac to discredit the testimony of an eyewitness. Signature fine and clean; envelope uniformly browned on face. (Est. $1,200-1,500)
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Politics makes strange bedfellows!
313. LINCOLN, Abraham. Autograph cover addressed by Lincoln to Hon. Simon Cameron, December 31, 1860. Perhaps this saying was coined to describe the relationship between Abraham Lincoln and Simon Cameron. In any case, it could not have been more appropriate. As many know, Lincoln’s managers promised a Cabinet post to Cameron at the Wigwam Convention in Chicago in exchange for votes from the Pennsylvania delegation. This deal, unauthorized by Lincoln, was critical in obtaining the nomination. Despite a directive to “make no promises,” Lincoln felt honor-bound to hold up his end of the bargain. Cameron and Edward Bates, another convention also-ran, visited with Lincoln in Springfield on December 31, 1860. The following day, Lincoln gave Cameron a letter confirming that he would be nominated as Sec. of the Treasury or Sec. of War, and seeking Cameron’s permission to do so. Three days later, an anxious Lincoln wrote to Cameron “You have not, as yet, signified to me, whether you would accept the appointment; and, with much pain, I now say to you, that you will relieve me from great embarrassment by allowing me to recall the offer.” On January 13, 1861, Lincoln wrote again to Cameron, this time asking him to destroy the original January 3rd missive (which Cameron apparently did), sending a replacement letter dated January 3rd which requested Cameron to write “declining the appointment,” and apologizing for the first letter. “I learn… that your feelings were wounded by the terms of my letter… I wrote that letter under great anxiety, and perhaps I was not so guarded in its terms as I should have been; but I beg you to be assured, I intended no offense… If I should make a cabinet appointment for Penn. before I reach Washington, I will not do so without consulting you…” In the end, Cameron was appointed Sec. of War, a post he held briefly and ignominiously. We are pleased to offer one of the original envelopes addressed by Lincoln to Cameron that contained one of these historic letters. (The missives now found in the Library of Congress.) Inscribed by Lincoln Hon. Simon Cameron U.S.S. Washington D.C. This is docketed on the front, in Cameron’s hand, Lincoln Dec 31.60 Jan. 3 61. The Jan. date is crossed out, probably by Cameron after heeding Lincoln’s advice to destroy the letter of that date. Inscription is dark and bold. A small vertical tear extends from the top edge to the “U” in “U. S. S.” which it barely touches. Interestingly, the interior of the envelope has three lines of text which, though illegible, likely were offset from Lincoln’s letter. (Est. $1,500-1,800)
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Signed “Lincoln & Herndon.”
314. HERNDON, William Henry. (1818-91) Lincoln’s law partner and biographer. Born in Kentucky, he moved to Springfield in 1823. He met Lincoln when both shared a second-story room with Joshua Speed, a Springfield merchant, in his store. At that time, Herndon was a clerk for Speed. After studying and passing the bar examination in 1844, Herndon joined Lincoln as his partner, a relationship which continued until Lincoln’s death. Herndon dedicated the rest of his life to Lincoln’s memory researching the martyred President’s early years. ADS from the firm of Lincoln and Herndon, January 19, 1858, authorizes the court clerk to serve process in the case of John Calhoun vs. Edward O. Smith and Harriett Smith. Lincoln’s law partner signs for both of them. Quite a pretty example. (Est. $800-1,200)
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315. FINE IMPRESSION OF
ABRAHAM LINCOLN’S PRESIDENTIALWAX SEAL. A sharp, clear, full strike of Lincoln’s seal (an eagle with arrows and olive branch) in dark maroon wax on plain white card, 3 x 2-1/4 inches. One of a limited number of impressions made about 45 years ago when the ivory-handled seal itself (originally kept by Lincoln’s White House guard William H. Crook) was in the famed collection of Justin G. Turner. Uncommon! (OPEN)
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The building that launched a thousand LAWYERS!
316. [LINCOLN/Law] Original plans for building the Sangamon County Courthouse in Springfield, 1825. Complete with three side elevations and floor plan, 4 pages, [1825]. Together with manuscript document detailing costs for construction of Sangamon County Courthouse, 7 1/4 x 10″, 1 page, June 7, 1825. Separation at folds, minor foxing, otherwise fine. Wonderful association material with historical significance. [Provenance: ex-Ralph Newman, King Hostick.] (Est. $800-1,200)
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“I go no where…”
Reclusive Mary Lincoln makes dinner plans!

317. LINCOLN, Mary Todd. (1818-82) First Lady. Following the assassination of her husband and death of Tad, her mental health deteriorated to the point where she was committed to a mental institution by her eldest son, Robert. Estranged from Robert she spent the rest of her life in seclusion. Unknown and unpublished Autograph Letter Signed “Mary Lincoln” on monogrammed, black-bordered notesheet, 3pp. inlaid by last leaf, January 23, 1873, n.p. (Chicago), to her close friend and confidant Isaac Arnold. In full: “My son informed me last evening that he has promised to be in St. Louis next Sunday morning to pass that day with his friend John Diller[?]. He will without doubt write his regrets. You have been so kind & good a friend to me, throughout these long & sorrowful years, that although I go nowhere else, I cannot decline your invitation for next Saturday at five. I trust the waiter made the proper excuses to Mrs. & Miss Arnold yesterday morning. I was not up, as I had not closed my eyes the night before. Gratefully, your friend, Mary Lincoln.” Light in inking, written with a fine nib, but fully readable. Wonderful content from a woman whose notorious reclusiveness seems to have been challenged by this upcoming affair. Docketed by Arnold on the last page “Mrs. Lincoln Dinner…” One of Lincoln’s earliest biographers, an Illinois Congressman and close ally, Arnold involved the President when embroiled in a scandal regarding empty jobs at the Post Office (boy… how little things change!). Arnold, present at Lincoln’s deathbed, also helped escort his body back to Springfield. A wonderful missive and rare piece of history. (Est. $3,000-5,000)
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318 LINCOLN, Mary Todd. Free franked envelope, Dec. 14 [n.y.], from Saint Charles, IL, addressed in her hand to “Mrs. Rhoda E. White Grand Central Hotel New York.” The writing is in dark pen, an excellent specimen. (Est. $2,000-3,000)
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Among the rarest Lincoln signatures…
the President’s father, Thomas.
The great Charles Hamilton speculated
“This volume from the Kentucky frontier is perhaps
the first book Lincoln ever read.” A tremendous relic.

319. LINCOLN, Thomas. (1778-1851) Father of Abraham, moved with his family from Virginia to Kentucky in the 1780s, to Indiana in 1816, and to Illinois in 1830. A laborer, farmer, property owner, and accomplished carpenter, Thomas Lincoln was recalled by his son as poorly educated and “never did more in the way of writing than to bunglingly sign his own name.” Prohibitively rare signature(s) in a family-owned book, An Alarm to Unconverted Sinners by Joseph Allen. (Samuel Etheridge; Charlestown, 1807.) Signed in three places by Thomas Lincoln, twice in ink and once in pencil, 238pp., leather cover with minor loss on spine and verso, normal wear on pages. This important relic is accompanied by a letter of authentication from the 20th century’s greatest manuscript expert and dealer, Charles Hamilton: “I certify that I have carefully examined the volume, `An alarm to Unconverted Sinners’ (Charlestown, Mass., 1807), and find that it contains three authentic signatures of Thomas Lincoln, father of Abraham Lincoln. Two of the signatures are in ink and a third is faintly written in pencil. For comparison, a copy of an undisputed signature of Thomas Lincoln is hereunto attached. This book turned up in a collection of books from the library of Hannibal Hamlin, Lincoln’s Vice President from Maine. According to most authorities, Thomas Lincoln did not know how to read and `his sole accomplishment in writing was to be able, with painful concentration, to scrawl his name.’ (Benj. P. Thomas, Abraham Lincoln, p. 6). It is an odd fact, incidentally, that children, or semi-literate persons, tend to write their names more than once in any book they possess. Lincoln biographer Benj. Thomas also points out that `the Bible was probably the only book the Lincolns owned’ (op. cit., p. 16) in their frontier log cabin. If so this Bible has apparently not survived. It is likely that Thomas Lincoln acquired this volume, previously unknown to historians, in trade for services. Although he could not read the book himself, he likely hoped it would be helpful to his children. It seems very probable, considering the date of this book, two years before Abraham Lincoln was born, that the future emancipator may have learned to read from it, since, even if the Lincolns had possessed a Bible, it would have been much more difficult going for a small boy. This volume from the Kentucky frontier is perhaps the first book Lincoln ever read. It may have had a profound influence on the rustic youth who was to become America’s greatest president.“

A true piece of history… that a young Abe Lincoln may have read this very book and the fact that his father owned this volume is stirring. We were fortunate to sell the only other Thomas Lincoln signature to appear in the market in the past fifty years – that piece, a Signed Legal Document, sold for $12,000 in our auction two years ago. This has even more significance. (Est. $12,000-15,000)
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320. [LINCOLN] Amazingly similar to the signature of a more famous, later namesake! A fine original manuscript document, 4 x 7″, listing apothecary supplies sold by Abraham Lincoln of Worcester, MA. (This Abraham Lincoln is a direct relative and namesake to President Abraham Lincoln, from shared lineage of Samuel Lincoln who settled in Hingham, MA. in 1637.) Note his signature is very similar to that of the president! Written on the verso of a note dated 1780 detailing an amount for “Continental Hard money tax.” Very clean, a wonderful, early association piece from the family. (Est. $200-500)
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Only a few months after the assassination, Lincoln’s son trades duplicate copies of eulogies honoring his father.
A profound – and quite sad – letter.

321.LINCOLN, Robert Todd. (1843-1926) Eldest Lincoln son, the only child to live to adulthood, Secretary of War under President Garfield, President of the Pullman Company. ALS, 2 pp., on black-bordered mourning stationery, Chicago, August 2, 1865, with postal used mourning cover addressed to “Hon. Edwin McPherson, Gettysburg, Penna.” The letter reads: “My dear Sir, Yours of July 18th has been received. I regret very much that I have not by me all the sermons, & c. that have been sent, but before leaving Washington, they were packed up, and it is now next to impossible to reach them. As I recollect however, I had recd. few or none from the Northwest and but few since – of all that I can reach, I have only three duplicates and I mailed them yesterday to you, in the hope that they may add to your collection. I regret very much that I can aid you so little and I would be glad to receive any duplicates you can spare. Very Sincerely Yours Robert T. Lincoln.” Very fine. One of the best examples you can hope to find as later letters show a reluctance to refer to his father. (Est. $700-900)
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Sec. of War Robert Lincoln recalls being
“a witness of the great Chicago fire”
and orders aid for those in Savannah.

322. LINCOLN, Robert Todd. Manuscript Letter Signed, 3pp., on “War Department, Washington City” letterhead, November 1st, 1883, to Rufus E. Lester, Mayor of Savannah, GA regarding the great Savannah fire in which some 300 homes were destroyed with more than 1,500 people left homeless. Lincoln writes: “Sir: Late last evening, I received a telegram from you saying `A disastrous fire has made homeless many hundreds of people. May we have the use of Oglethorpe Barracks for a few days for sheltering the destitute.’ I replied immediately in a telegram addressed to you, `Officer in charge of barracks is ordered by telegram sent herewith to allow unoccupied parts of barracks to be used for shelter of destitute persons designated by you.’ I trust that my telegram reached you in time to prevent suffering, for, having been myself a witness of the great Chicago fire in 1871, I can readily understand the necessity for immediate temporary relief to those made homeless by an extensive conflagration. I think it proper to call your attention to the fact that the barracks are advertised to be sold on the 15th instant. I am entirely unacquainted with the extent of the disaster which has taken place, but I trust that the time between now and the day fixed for the sale will be sufficient to enable you to provide for the safety and comfort in other ways of all who under your designation have been able to procure shelter in the barracks. I am, very respectfully, your obedient servant, Robert Lincoln Secretary of War.” A beautiful letter. (Est. $500-700)
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323.LINCOLN, Robert Todd. A wonderful framed assemblage featuring a cabinet card of Robert Todd Lincoln by C.M. Bell of Washington, D.C. and a manuscript DS, October 10, 1884, on “War Department, Washington City,” letterhead. Signed by Robert Todd Lincoln as Secretary of War to “Messrs. David Bugbee & Co. Booksellers and Stationers, Bangor, Maine.” The letter reads: “Gentlemen: Referring to the inquiry contained in your letter of the 25th ultimo, I beg to inform you that the address of Wesley Blake, is Mobile, Alabama. Very respectfully, R.T. Lincoln.” The pieces are archivally framed, 20 x 19 1/4″ overall, with three separate windows. A really nice presentation. (Est. $400-600)
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324. Carte of Abraham Lincoln II, known as “Jack”, the only son of Robert Todd Lincoln. Young Jack had a great interest in the Civil War and was a regular playmate of President Garfield’s son. He died at the age of 16 in 1890, a victim of blood poisoning related to a minor surgical operation. Carte taken in 1887, age 14 by Max Platz of Chicago. (From the collection of Lloyd Ostendorf.) Small hole at bottom left corner, mounting remnants on verso, else quite fine. (Est. $400-600)
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We guarantee you won’t find another “Lincoln collection” like this!
325. His namesake and great-grandfather may have abhorred liquor… not so this generation! A truly unique group: Lincoln Isham’s personal collection of membership cards to various New York speakeasies. Eight (8) cards (one duplicate), including one signed by Isham as a member of the Napoleon Club in midtown Manhattan. Isham (1892-1971) was one of the last direct descendants of the President, the grandson of Robert Todd Lincoln and Mary Harlan. (Two other great-grand children by different lines outlived Isham by a few years… thus concluding the direct blood-line.) Isham lived in Vermont – but clearly must have enjoyed “respites” in New York! (OPEN)
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They cared for Fido when the First Family moved to Washington.
326. An interesting inscribed, printed testimonial from John Linden Roll. A biographical sketch of Roll’s friendship with Abraham Lincoln – starting with his father meeting him at Sangamon Town in 1831. Roll’s father, a contractor, followed Lincoln to Springfield and worked on the Old State House in Springfield and made repairs to the Lincoln home. Roll later went to Illinois State University with Robert Lincoln. The Roll children were given the Lincoln family dog “Fido” when the First Family departed for Washington. Together with two photographs of Roll, one of which shows him with his collection of Lincoln memorabilia. Both photos show mounting remnants on verso. Fun association! (Est. $300-400)
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Herbert Wells Fay to Grace Bedell…
incredible Lincoln association!
327. FAY, Herbert Wells. (1859-1949) Custodian at the Lincoln Tomb at Oak Ridge Cemetery for 28 years. A remarkable inscription by Fay on the verso of a 4 x 6″ silverprint from the Georg Studio with 1894 copyright by Fay in negative – a copy of one of Lincoln’s earliest portraits with a beard. This keepsake, sold by Fay to well-wishers, is inscribed to none other than Grace Bedell Billings, who as a little girl wrote Lincoln suggesting that he should grow a beard! “To Grace Bedell Billings. One of the first original photos of Lincoln after you induced him to wear a beard. Taken about 10 days before you saw him. H.W. Fay owner of original negative.” At top, he has again signed his name adding “Custodian Lincoln’s Tomb July 18, 1922.” On October 15, 1860, Bedell, then an eleven-year-old girl, wrote to Lincoln noting that she was not old enough to vote, but “I have got 4 brothers and part of them will vote for you any way and if you will let your whiskers grow I will try and get the rest of them to vote for you. You would look a great deal better for your face is so thin. All the ladies like whiskers…” Lincoln replied to Grace on October 19, “As to the whiskers, having never worn any, do you not think people would call it a piece of silly affection if I were to begin it now?…” Nearly five months later, the fully bearded Lincoln arrived in Westfield, NY where he interrupted a political address to invite his little correspondent up to the platform. There, he kissed Grace and told her he’d taken her advice. Offered together with a 5.5 x 3″ photograph of an elderly Grace Bedell Billings (1848-1936) posed with three of her grandchildren. Lincoln photo bears small crease bottom left corner, otherwise very good. Together, two pieces with terrific Lincoln association! (Est. $400-500)
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EARLY ASSOCIATES
[As in past Rail Splitter auctions, we are pleased to offer a wonderful collection of documents and letters from individuals who played an integral role in shaping Lincoln’s early interests and pursuits – his close friends, associates in the law, political allies and adversaries.]

The “Long Nine.”

Lincoln’s colleagues from the Illinois House of Representatives – 1836-38 – so called because of their height, each being over six feet tall. Credited with obtaining the removal of the state capital from Vandalia to Springfield, each remained one of Lincoln’s close political and personal friends. Documents signed by the Long Nine are scarce – examples from Dan Stone and Andrew McCormick are particularly rare.

328. [COLLECTION]ELKINS, William F. ADS as “Justice of the Peace,” August 11, 1832, a true copy of a legal document being a receipt for a “large black horse, about fiteen and a half hands high, four years old last spring, long switch tail… a natural trotter…” for forty five dollars. 7 1/2 x 7″, some dampstains, not affecting signature. William F. Elkins, (1792-1878) was born in Kentucky and moved to Springfield in 1825. He was appointed by Lincoln register of the land office of Springfield. In 1865, he served as one of Lincoln’s funeral pallbearers. DAWSON, John. (1791-1850) Dawson was born in Virginia and settled as farmer in Sangamon County in 1827. He served five terms in the legislature and was a member of the 1847 state constitutional convention. ADS, 7 x 5 1/2″, March 5, 1830, an appraisal of a steer at $8 for a citizen of Springfield, John Smith. A clean, bold example. EDWARDS, Ninian. (1809-89) Lincoln’s brother-in-law, Ninian Edwards was a son of Illinois’ first territorial governor. He married Elizabeth Todd, Mary Todd Lincoln’s sister. Ninian served as Illinois state attorney general, state senator, and received a Civil War appointment from Lincoln. Prominent in Springfield politics, Lincoln was married in his home. ADS, 7 3/4 x 4 1/2″, one vertical tear lays flat, bold signature. A receipt as partial settlement in a case against James D. Henry. (Lincoln served under Lt. Col. Henry in the Black Hawk War.) FLETCHER, Job. (1793-1872) Fletcher was born in Virginia and moved to Sangamon County in 1819. He spent several terms in the state house and senate. DS, December 7, 1844, 8 x 12″, light separation at usual folds, bold and clean. A manuscript-completed, printed Administrator’s Bond, also signed by Eddin SWITT and Philip WINEMAN, and signed as witness by Thomas MOFFETT, Lincoln legal associate and Justice. HERNDON, Archer G. (1795-1867) Herndon was the father of Lincoln’s law partner, William Herndon. He was born in Virginia and moved to Springfield in 1825. A prominent leader of the Illinois democrats, Herndon was a successful merchant and tavern-keeper, a member of the state legislature, and receiver of the land office in Springfield. DS, May 12, 1830, 7 1/2 x 4 1/2″, a promissory note. McCORMICK, Andrew. McCormick was twice a member of the state legislature. A stonecutter by trade, very little is known of his career and he left Sangamon County at an early date. His signature is exceptionally rare – only a few examples are known. DS, 6 1/2 x 3″, September 5, 1832. A receipt for the payment of $33.25 from a William Henderson. STONE, Daniel. Born in Vermont, Stone moved to Springfield in 1833. As a member of the legislature, Stone and Lincoln entered a protest against a series of pro-slavery resolutions — considered among Lincoln’s earliest and most important statements on the subject. Stone became a circuit court judge in Galena. He left Illinois for New Jersey and died in 1845. DS “D. Stone, Depty. Attny.“, 7 1/2 x 12”, April, 1834, requesting that subpoenas be issued on behalf of the Circuit Court naming a dozen individuals involved in the Lincoln story – including members of the Berry and Clary families. A clean, bold specimen. WILSON, Robert Lang. (1805-1880) Wilson was born in Pennsylvania and moved to Athens, Illinois in 1833. A lawyer, Wilson was a member of the legislature and later circuit clerk in Whiteside County, Illinois. He was a probate judge who raised troops in Illinois during the Civil War, and was made a paymaster by Lincoln. Marriage certificate Signed on verso, 7 3/4″ x 5″, January 16, 1838. Also signed by Charles R. Matheny. Overall, a fine collection! (Est. $1,500-3,000)

He shared a room with Lincoln, described him as a “green horn,” and provided William Herndon with much of what is known on the great man’s early life… an extremely rare autograph.

329. CARMAN, Caleb. (1805-88) Old New Salem friend of Lincoln with whom Lincoln boarded during his early years in Sangamon Town in the 1830s. Carman provided many of the early anecdotes of Lincoln’s early life in Herndon’s The Life of Lincoln. Extremely rare Autograph Letter Signed, the only example known to us, 5 x 8″, Petersburg, July 30, 1888 to an unnamed correspondent shortly before his death noting an “…inclosed [sic] picture of my self you can put on the Picture your Self I was born 1805 11 of March…” Ink slightly smudged, otherwise very good. This rare missive was found in the retained papers of Osborn Oldroyd. (See additional items later in this catalog.) (OPEN)
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330. CONKLING, James Cook. (1816-99) Came to Springfield in 1838 and developed a close personal and professional relationship with Lincoln. He served on the Republican State Central Committee and was a presidential elector in 1860 and 1864. Through Conkling, Lincoln defended his positions on emancipation and the use of Blacks in the military – all articulated through a letter to Conkling that was read before a Springfield Union meeting. During the broken engagement with Mary Todd, Conkling wrote Mercy Levering that after a week in the sick room Lincoln “is reduced and emaciated in appearance and seems scarcely to possess strength enough to speak above a whisper. This case at present is truly deplorable.” Mary Todd and Mrs. Conkling were good Springfield friends. ADS (completely in the hand of Conkling), 7 1/2 x 3 1/2, from Springfield, August 6, 1841, a receipt from George Davis (fellow Springfield attorney). On this date, Lincoln is in Sangamon Circuit Court. Quite fine. Together with BUNN, Jacob. Bunn was a successful merchant and banker in Springfield and personal friend of Lincoln. In 1859, Bunn advanced Lincoln $400 for the purchase of the Illinois State Staats-Anzeiger, a German newspaper, published in Springfield which Lincoln later resold for the same price he paid for it. Jacob Bunn would later perform valuable financial services and advise for Mary Todd Lincoln for which she expressed gratitude in their numerous letters. ADS (completely in Bunn’s hand), 5 x 2′, receipt paid in full on account, dated January 1, 1850. Quite good. Two (2) fine items. (Est. $100-200)
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331. DUNCAN, Joseph. (1794-1844) Early political opponent who later became a close political friend of Lincoln, Governor of Illinois 1834-8. Duncan commanded forces with distinction in the War of 1812 and was awarded a “testimonial sword” by Congress for heroism. He served in Congress as a Jackson Democrat only to later switch parties to become a Whig. It was during his tenure as Governor that Lincoln successfuly orchestrated the removal of the Capital to Springfield. Handsome land grant signed as Governor, 15 1/2 x 12 1/2″, July 1, 1835. A choice example, usual folds, quite fine. Also signed by A.P. Field as Sec. of State, a man Lincoln helped throw out of office in a fight over party politics. Scarce. (Est. $150-200)
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332. [Group] A fine collection of early Lincoln associates and friends.GENTRY, Allen. ADS, check signed and in the hand of Allen Gentry, written from Rockport, Indiana, 1861. Boyhood friend of Lincoln’s from Indiana. Son of James Gentry who ran the store in the village of Gentryville, about a mile and half from where the Lincolns lived. Lincoln helped out at the store. Allen Gentry and Lincoln took a flatboat of cargo for James Gentry to New Orleans at a wage of $8.00 a month. They made frequent stops to trade at the sugar plantations along the river; “were attacked by seven negroes with the intent to kill and rob them,” remembered Lincoln. In New Orleans Lincoln encountered large numbers of slaves. Small tear and fold at bottom left, otherwise fine. Together with, REGNIER, Francis. One of two doctors who resided in New Salem and later Petersburg. In New Salem, Dr. Regnier’s office was located between Martin Waddell’s house and Sam Hill’s carding machine. ADS, 2 1/2 x 7 1/2′, in Regniers hand, a receipt for “…Jan 8, 1850 for medical services in last illness $5.00.” Quite good. In addition, Legal DS by GREEN, Bowling. Green was Justice of the Peace in New Salem. Lincoln was a constant visitor to his home when studying law. He is said to have found comfort at the time of Ann Rutledge’s death from “his old friend Bowling Green, also lived about a mile south of New Salem.” (Donald) Lincoln regularly attended Bowling Green’s court. Green was the one who suggested that Lincoln run for the state legislature in 1832. Green died on February 13, 1842. At his funeral Mrs. Green requested that Lincoln say something. Accounts of what he said are conflicting, some stating that his remarks were beautiful, others that he was choked with emotion. Three (3) fine items. (Est. $300-500)
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333. [KENTUCKY/Lincoln Postal History] HAYCRAFT, Samuel. (1795-1878), Elizabethtown, Kentucky native, local historian, Unionist; as a boy knew Thomas Lincoln, Abraham’s father; carried on an extensive, friendly correspondence with the President-to-be in 1860; Lincoln assured Haycraft “I very well know who you are – so well I recognized your handwriting”, but to Haycraft’s suggestion that he visit his old Kentucky home Lincoln asked, perhaps not wholly in jest, if he might not be “lynched”. Partly printed summons filled out and signed by Haycraft as clerk of the Hardin Circuit Court, ordering two men to appear under penalty of 100 pounds (not dollars!) each, 1 page, oblong 8vo, 15 Feb. 1844, addressed on verso to the Nelson County Sheriff, Bardstown, with fine blue Elizabethtown postmark. Light old folds; very good. Plus: ALS of J.F. Cessna, Hodgenville (Ky.), 26 Jan. 1844, to James Wright, Bardstown, stating he could not serve a man “who lives out of Larue county…on Nolynn in Hardin County“; addressed overleaf with manuscript “Hodgenville / Jany 30” postmark in deep blue ink. Folds worn and a bit rough, but a very rare vintage postmark from Lincoln’s “birthplace”, and mentioning Nolin Creek, on which his family also once lived. (Est. $60-80)
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334. HEAD, Jesse. Justice of the Peace and minister of the Methodist Episcopal Church in Washington County, Kentucky, where he owned property and slaves. On June 1, 1806, he married Thomas Lincoln and Nancy Hanks, parents of Abraham Lincoln. ADS, 1 p., 6 x 5′. Six lines in the hand of Jesse Head as “Justice for Washington County” for an oath given before him, 1800. Normal wear. (Est. $75-100)
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335. HERNDON, William H. (1818-91) Abraham Lincoln’s law partner and biographer. ADS, signed “Herndon & Zane” as attorney for the complainant, 3 1/2 pp., August 15, 1861, small folio, to the Judge of the Sangamon Circuit Court. Original legal brief in the case of King vs. Barrett, a dispute over a land transaction. When Lincoln went into the White House, Herndon entered an informal partnership with Charles S. Zane, who, like Herndon, was a radical Republican. Very fine condition. (Est. $400-500)
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“I want it to defend Lincoln’s memory.” Nine months after the assassination, Lincoln’s former law partner assumes
his new responsibility –
as biographer and defender.
336. HERNDON, William H. ALS, Springfield, January 22, 1866. He writes: “Friend Hall — Will you have the kindness to copy Mr. Lincoln’s bond to Johnston or your father, which I saw when I was down to see you. Copy every word – figure, and name carefully from top to bottom, and send to me, if you please. Don’t fail. I want it to defend Lincoln’s memory. Please write to me at any time you may think of any thing that is good or bad of Mr. Lincoln, truthfully just as it happened and took place. Were any of your boys applicants for any office made to Mr. Lincoln while he was President? Hall — what is your honest opinion — come honest opinion — in reference to Mr. Lincoln’s love for his kin and relations generally. Please — friend — accommodate me. Your Friend W. H. Herndon.” A fabulous Herndon letter articulating his new drive… to chronicle every aspect of Lincoln’s life and paint him with the honesty he deserved. John Hall was Lincoln’s step-nephew (his father, Squire Hall, was married to Matilda, daughter of Sarah Lincoln). One light vertical fold and mounting remnants at edge where once tipped into a book, 8 x 10″, as fine a Herndon letter as you can hope to find. (Est. $1,500-2,500)
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An early Lincoln law associate’s certificate to practice law… signed by two other
early Lincoln law associates.
337. LOCKWOOD, Samuel D. and BROWNE, Thomas C. ADS, 2pp., October 12, 1839. This document certifies John Chapman to practice law in the state of Illinois; signed by Samuel D. Lockwood and Thomas C. Browne, both associated with Lincoln’s legal career and members of the State Supreme Court. Lockwood was also an Illinois Attorney General. Browne ran unsuccessfully for Governor before he was on the court and attended Abe’s wedding to Mary Todd. Very fine. Quite scarce, early signatures. (Est. $200-400)
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338. McNAMAR, John. (1801-79) McNamar, using the alias McNeil, was one of the first merchants at New Salem. He sold the business in 1832 and returned to New York with the intention of bringing his parents to Illinois. McNamar and Ann Rutledge were engaged to be married, but in part because of his long delay in returning, Rutledge became engaged to Lincoln. While living with her parents on a farm owned by McNamar, Ann died, shortly before McNamar returned from the East. At the time of this document he was serving as Menard County Assessor. ADS (all in McNamar’s hand) legal paper dealing with “List of lands known to have been twice assessed for the year 1842.” Petersburg, June 19, 1843. Excellent condition, rare. (Est. $75-100)
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One of the last Lincolns
in the direct blood-line.

339. RANDOLPH, Jessie Lincoln Beckwith Johnson. (1875-1948) Daughter of Robert Todd Lincoln. ADS (a check) signed “J. L. Randolph” on Riggs National Bank, Washington, April 27, 1927. Jessie was the third child of Robert and Mary. She was married three times. Fine. (Est. $50-100)
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340. RUTLEDGE, David H. ADS, October 21, 1841, in the Menard Circuit Court matter of Jacob Bale vs. William Bennett. Bale was a resident at New Salem. By this time in 1841, he owned much of the land that once held New Salem including the Rutledge Tavern and the old mill. Bennet ran the hotel in Petersburg. Rutledge, the brother of Ann Rutledge, lived only a short time after this document was signed. Fine. (Est. $300-400)
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341. [RUTLEDGE] Manuscript inventory of the goods, chattels and personal property from the estate of D.H. Rutledge, signed by appraisers Bennet Day, W.G. Spears and John McNeal. Folio document, Menard County, Ill., 11 June 1842. David Ham Rutledge, a younger brother of Ann Rutledge, served in Abraham Lincoln’s company during the Black Hawk War and was once his co-defendant in a lawsuit (although not yet of legal age, Rutledge had signed a land conveyance bond on which Lincoln went surety; the parties settled and the suit was dismissed). Rutledge became the first practicing attorney in Menard County and as such was involved in a few suits with Lincoln, but his very successful career was cut short by death when he was less than 30 years of age. This document shows that he left personal property valued at just under $70, including two cows, a bull calf, flour, meat, a “furkin of laird“, etc.; among his various household items those shown as most valuable were his “stove firnature & pipe” ($15), clock ($5), “bed, polster & under bed” ($12) and “bead stead.'” (Est. $200-400)
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342.STUART, John Todd. (1807-85) Illinois legislator, Congressman, cousin of Mary Todd, Stuart was Lincoln’s first law partner (1837-41) and his early mentor. They met during service together in the Black Hawk War. Stuart loaned the budding lawyer his first law books. An “old-line” Whig, Stuart opposed the Republican Party and Lincoln’s administration, primarily because of emancipation policies. Pair of Autograph Legal Documents Signed “Stuart & Dummer,” concerning New Salem resident Nelson Alley, quoting a promissory note signed by Abraham Lincoln; in all 5 pages, 4to, reinforced at folds by silking, prepared for the November 1834 special term of the Sangamon County (Illinois) Circuit Court. Henry E. Dummer, preceded Lincoln as the law partner of John Todd Stuart; Lincoln studied informally under Stuart & Dummer and borrowed lawbooks from them until his own admission to the bar in 1836. One document, signed “Stuart & Dummer p.q.”, is a complaint in which Springfield merchants James Bell and Seth Tinsley seek damages from Alley for failing to meet a $453.84 promissory note of 6 May 1833 which was secured by “a conditional deed to Salem town lot” and other acreage. The text incorporates a copy of Alley’s note which was endorsed with two credits, one by “Constant, Allen & Lincoln’s note for $50…Springfield Sept. 21st 1833.” The second document describes Alley’s mortgaged acreage and the “town lot in New Salem…measuring 65 ft. front…with all its appurtenances” and asks the sheriff to summon Alley to show cause why judgment should not be rendered against him and the properties sold to satisfy such judgment. Nelson Alley briefly owned the New Salem tavern where Lincoln occasionally boarded. In October 1832 they jointly signed a note for Vincent Bogue (the steamboat captain who dreamed of linking the Sangamon into the Mississippi and Ohio river trade) and were subsequently sued on it. Alley was one of the sureties who guaranteed Lincoln’s bond when he was appointed postmaster of New Salem in May 1833, and that same year they were among the petitioners for construction of a road from Petersburg towards Beardstown. On 1 March 1834 both took part in a convention called to name a candidate for Governor of Illinois, but following this Alley’s name fades from the Lincoln record. The complainants in this case were also Lincoln associates: Lincoln eventually moved his law offices into Tinsley’s store building on the Statehouse square, while James Bell went into business with Lincoln’s intimate friend Joshua F. Speed. Both of these documents are signed by Charles R. Matheny (1786-1839), Methodist preacher and Springfield pioneer who held many Sangamon county offices and was a leader of the town’s colonization society. His son James H. Matheny, a good friend of Lincoln (and “best man” at his wedding to Mary Todd) testified that his father considered Lincoln an “infidel” and “with all his soul hated to vote for him” for the state legislature. Contemporary material referring to New Salem is rare, much more so when it mentions Lincoln. (Est. $800-1,200)
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He authored one of Lincoln’s first campaign biographies… the only one to which Lincoln himself made corrections. “No admirer, who speaks in his praise must pause to conceal a stain upon his good name.” The ONLY known holographic excerpt from the Life of Lincoln.
343. HOWELLS, William Dean. (1837-1920) Journalist, novelist, poet and biographer. He wrote the first, true campaign biography of 1860, The Lives and Speeches of Abraham Lincoln and Hannibal Hamlin. (See: The Rail Splitter, Winter 2001, for details). Howells also penned well-received, 19th century novels (The Rise of Silas Lapham, 1885) and was considered one of the great editors/critics of his day. Autograph Quotation Signed, 5.5 x 8.25″ on custom sheet prepared by Osborn Oldroyd for his monumental 1882 work The Lincoln Memorial: Album-Immortelles. (See later in this catalog for additional Oldroyd material.) Howells pens a moving sentiment on the stationery provided for the compilation – Lincoln profile at top; the tomb pictured on verso. “No admirer who speaks in his praise must pause to conceal a stain upon his good name. No true man falters in his affection at the remembrance of any mean action or littleness in the life of Lincoln. The purity of his reputation ennobles every incident of his career and gives significance to all the events of his past.” W.D. Howells, Belmont, MA, 1880. This represents the only such manuscript by Howells extant; published on page 407 the Immortelles. A wonderful Lincoln treasure. (Est. $1,000-1,500)
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AUTOGRAPHS – POLITICAL & SOCIAL

John Bell and his wife pen a poem. Scarce prose from the man who ran against Abe!

344. BELL, John. (1797-1869) Speaker of the House of Representatives (1834-5), Senator from Tennessee (1847-59) who also served as William Henry Harrison’s Secretary of War. Bell ran on the Constitutional Union ticket in 1860 helping split the Democratic vote assuring Lincoln’s victory. Scarce A.Ms.S. “Jno. Bell” 3pp. 6 x 8″, Washington, June 19, 1836, a poem, the first half of which is in the hand of his wife and entitled “Field Flowers.” Bell writes in part: “O, what sad train of thought and feeling, / So unlike all that’s gay and pleasing, / Stealing oe’r my own fair one’s bosom / Was that which could, in dire discordance / with youthful hope and nature’s ordinance / convert the beauteous, smiling flower / that only blooms to banish sorrow / Into memento of parting hour…” He ends the poem noting that it is an “Emblem of joy to our friend Miss M.” Bell manuscript material is difficult to obtain, especially in the case of autograph letters and manuscripts like these. Very lightly toned, a couple of minor splits, binding remnants at left margins, otherwise mostly clean and boldly penned. (Est. $400-500)
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Lincoln’s former bodyguard writes a
biography that is “questioned” by his law partner. Ward Lamon is challenged for questionable accuracy!

345. BLACK, Jeremiah S. (1810-83) U.S. Attorney General in President Buchanan’s cabinet 1857-60; Sec. of State, Dec. 1860-March 1861; during the secession crisis, was of the opinion that it was the duty of the government to put down insurrection & that the Constitution contained no provisions for secession; retired from public life upon the inauguration of Lincoln. ALS, New York, June 4, 1872, from Black to Col. Donn Piatt, (1819-91), Union officer in the Civil War (volunteered as a private, was promoted to captain and became Adjutant General on the staff of General Robert Schenck, saw duty at Bull Run, Cross Keys & Bull Pasture Mountains). Piatt was the founder & editor of the weekly Capital in Washington, D.C., a journal that exposed weakness & corruption of both Democrats & Republicans. During the presidential campaign of 1876, he was indicted for “inspiring insurrection.” Excellent content complaining of being misquoted & warning about the credibility of the book by Lincoln’s former “bodyguard”, Ward Hill Lamon. Lamon was Black’s law partner at this time & his book Life of Abraham Lincoln was actually written by Black’s son, Chauncey F. Black. The bio was based chiefly on material which Lamon obtained (purchased!) from William H. Herndon. Black writes in part: “My Dear Sir, Returning from the West this morning, I found your letter in the Tribune. You are the greatest man alive when you express your own sentiments, but you miss it a little when you go for mine. If I reply it will be for your paper and after a fair talk. I will see you some time before long. I wish you would not say anything about Lamon’s Life of Lincoln until you learn the inside history of it. It is not the book that was written. The falsification of the text, the additions and suppressions are a big swindle. Yours truly J.S. Black” Includes Piatt’s docketing on back. A fascinating piece of Lincoln history. (Est. $200-400)
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A signed, special printing: Conant’s encounters with Abraham Lincoln.
346. CONANT, Alban Jasper. (1821-1915) Conant, an artist, author, correspondent, and founder of the School of Mines and Metallurgy, is best known for his portraits of Lincoln, Sherman, Anderson at Sumter, judges of the Supreme Court, and various social and business leaders of the day. Printed Manuscript Signed, leaves (pages 167-184) from Liber Scriptorum (Authors Club, New York: 1893).This is an eighteen-page offprint on heavy rag. Conant’s essay is entitled “My Acquaintance with Abraham Lincoln.” Conant first met Lincoln at an 1860 political convention and five years later accompanied the procession that returned the martyred President to Springfield. An excellent work, most certainly printed for the author to use as a presentation copy, boldly signed in full on the final page. Excellent – and certainly rare. (Est. $150-200)
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One of David Davis’
last legal briefs in Springfield.

347. DAVIS, David. (1813-86). Supreme Court Justice appointed to the Bench in 1862 by his grateful friend, President Lincoln. The two first met in 1835 while traveling the law circuit. Nine years later, Davis would write of his friend “Lincoln is the best stump speaker in the state.” Davis became Lincoln’s political strategist and de-facto campaign manager securing his 1860 nomination by rallying Lincoln forces at the Chicago convention. After the President’s assassination, Davis acted as executor of his estate. He served on the Bench for fifteen years (1862-77) and, following a failed attempt to secure the Liberal Republican nomination for president in 1872, served seven years in the Senate. Autograph Legal Document Signed, 2pp., December 4, 1860. A brief filed in the matter of Matthews & Adams, et. al., vs. Moses Walker. This must represent one of Davis’s last cases in Springfield before leaving for Washington. Just two months after this document was written, Davis joined the President-elect on the trip East. Extremely fine, minor separation at folds, docketed, bold “D. Davis” signature. Just about as fine an example as you could hope to find. (Est. $300-500)
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AN UNPUBLISHED, UNRECORDED JEFFERSON DAVIS LETTER
– WRITTEN ON ELECTIONDAY, NOVEMBER 6, 1860.

348. DAVIS, Jefferson. (1808-89) President of the Confederate States of America. Pierce’s Secretary of War and a Mississippi Senator, he left Congress after secession. He was elected President of the CSA, and circumstances made him more autocratic as the war progressed. After the war, he was captured and imprisoned for two years. Never tried for treason, he was released and wrote The Rise and Fall of the Confederate Government. A fantastic ALS, 2pp., light edge burns from old mat, evenly toned, minor chips, three small holes/separation at usual folds, minor smudges and very light dampstain at one corner all detract little. 8 x 9.5″ with a large, bold signature and clean, legible handwriting. Written to Henry Brown Cozzens (1830-77), head of the Young Men’s Democratic Association of Natchez, November 6, 1860, from “Brierfield,” Davis’s Mississippi plantation. In full:
“My dear Sir, I sincerely regretted my inability to accept your kind invitation to address the young men’s democratic association of Natchez on the evening of the 5th Inst. The labor I had undergone when I arrived at Vicksburg on the 3d and received your letter had inflamed my throat so as positively to require rest and you will appreciate my anxiety to be at the box of my own precinct on the election day, which could only be done by considerable fatigue and exposure, if a chance boat should indeed render it possible. Under these circumstances the dispatch which I hope you received in due time was dictated. For many reasons it would have been particularly gratifying to me to have been heard by your association, like St. Paul to have been permitted to answer for myself as well as to place before the opposition the cause of their own safety as involved in the defense of our common rights, which it requires united action to secure by peaceable means. Thanking you for your consideration. I am very respectfully and truly your’s, Jeffn. Davis.“
We believe that Davis most assuredly voted for the Breckinridge and Lane ticket – Southern Democrats – on this date. Few remember, however, that the future President of the Confederacy was frequently considered as a democratic candidate for the presidency himself. In fact, he received quite a few votes in the convention of 1860. In the Senate that year, Davis helped sponsor numerous bills in an effort to avoid the pending secession crisis. But, in his speech of December 10, 1860, he carefully distinguished between independence, which the states had achieved at great cost, and the Union, which had cost “little time, little money, and no blood,” taking his old state rights position. On January 10, 1861, Davis made another speech on the state of the country – asserting the right of secession, denying that of coercion, and urging the withdrawal of the garrison from Fort Sumter. Mississippi had seceded the previous day… but it was not until the 24th that Davis was officially informed. At that time, he withdrew from the Senate and returned home. Before his arrival, he was appointed by the Secession Convention Commander-in-Chief of the Army of Mississippi, with the rank of major general. On February 18th, he became President of the Confederate States of America. The rest, as they say, is all history! And… in some small way… it all started with this letter! A fun find that has remained in the original recipient’s family all these years.
(Est. $4,000-8,000)
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Rare war date ALS of Jefferson Davis.
With the fall of Richmond imminent, he reminisces about a “Senate debate.“
349. DAVIS, Jefferson. ALS, November 25 1864, on plain beige paper with a fleur-de-lis embossed in the upper left corner, reads: “My dear Sir, I sincerely thank you for the document sent this day. It has to me the special value you suppose, and I do not know whether more to admire the kindness which has secured me this attention or the order which after so long an interval enables you to hand me an unbound document with the marks for reference as I placed them when engaged in a Senate debate, years ago. Very truly yours (signed) Jefferson Davis“. The addressee is “Gen’l W. Patton“. A fine example. (Est. $3,000-4,000)
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350. DAVIS, Jefferson. A superb small archive of material relating to the proposed withdrawal of funding of the American arsenal at Harpers Ferry, West Virginia, including a Davis A.L.S. and L.S., with three A.L.S.’s from Congressman Chalres James FAULKNER (1806-1884) who helped write the Fugitive Slave Law of 1850 and incredibly would serve on Stonewall Jackson’s staff when Jackson’s army surrounded and captured the 12,500-man Union garrison at Harpers Ferry in 1862! In chronological order, the first letter was written by Faulkner, then representing the Harpers Ferry district, to Davis, then serving as Secretary of War, 1p. 4to., Washington, Aug. 27, 1856 expressing his worry about rumors circulating that the War Department would: “stop further operations at the National Armory”. Davis replies in an A.L.S. 2pp. 8vo., [Washington] Aug. 27, 1856: “…Instructions have been given not to continue any work at the armories or arsenals for which there are not available means. This will not stop the manufacture of arms immediately but the appropriation for improvements and repairs at the armories will serve for a short time longer to continue the last mentioned operations. It is a disagreeable and injurious necessity and I sincerely sympathise…“. The next day, Faulkner pens an initialed A.L.S. 1p. 4to. from Washington enclosing a copy of a letter he has that day sent to President Franklin Pierce (included in this lot) in which Faulkner pleads that many of his constituents will become unemployed, strongly making his points, and urging that the government seek to borrow the necessary funds to continue operations at the arsenals and armories. On September 1st, Davis replies to Faulkner with a manuscript L.S. 1p. 4to., War Dept., Washington, acknowledging the President’s receipt of Faulkner’s letter and summarizing its contents. . He adds: “…your letter has been returned by the President to this department with the following endorsement thereon: ‘I return herewith the letter of Mr. Faulkner…covered by a note to you of the same date. The Army appropriation bill having passed and having received my approval to-day, it is unnecessary to decide the question presented…” A terrific archive. (Est. $4,000-5,000)
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Davis pens a war-dated note to Texas Confederate Senator Louis Trezevant Wigfall.
351. DAVIS, Jefferson. ANS, September 11, 1862, addressed to Texas Confederate Senator Louis Trezevant Wigfall. The note expresses his wish to see Wigfall: “Dear Sir, when your convenience will permit please let me see you. Your Friend Jeffn. Davis” Davis’s desire to meet with Wigfall is interesting because the Senator had been opposed to many of his policies since early in the war. There had been opposition to Davis since his election the previous spring, but in early fall of 1862 the Confederacy’s situation looked a little bit brighter. Perhaps Davis thought that this was the moment to win Wigfall over to his side. Wigfall had been a U.S. Senator, resigning from that body in time to visit Fort Sumter at the end of the bombardment to ask for the Union surrender. He served as a Brigadier General, C.S.A., from October 1861 until the following February, when he resigned to take the Confederate Senate seat. Throughout the war, his opposition to Davis never seemed to waver. Fine condition. A fantastic example. (Est. $2,000-2,500)
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Democrats Say:
“Let Bygones be Bygones!”

352. [DAVIS, Jefferson] Debate on Pensioning Jeff. Davis, Condensed from the Proceedings of the U. S. Senate, March 3, 1879. An 8-page Republican pamphlet describing how the motion to deny Jeff Davis a veterans’ pension – based on and due from his service in the Mexican War – was defeated along strict party lines. All the Republicans voted for denial of benefits, all the Democrats voted for giving same. A scarce imprint, minor light age, one tiny tear lays flat, else quite fine. (Est. $75-100)
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353. DOUGLAS, Stephen Arnold. (1813-61) Northern Democratic candidate for President in 1860, Illinois Senator, Representative. Lincoln’s great political adversary was considered one of the great orators of his time. The “Little Giant” defeated Lincoln for the Senate in 1858 following a series of public debates, but later supported the President in the early days of his Administration. He was acting on Lincoln’s advice to rally support in the Northwest, delivering a speech in Springfield, when he was stricken with typhoid and died. Fine content ALS, July 21, 1857, a recommendation for a “Mr. Howard in place of Mr. Gray as Post Master – I know Mr. Howard well as one of the truest Democrats in Northern Illinois and esteem him a personal friend…” Usual folds, integral blank leaf intact, quite fine. A clean example to represent the Little Giant! (Est. $300-400)
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354. DOUGLAS, Stephen Arnold. Autographe Legal Document Signed, 7 3/4 x 12 3/4″ entirely in Douglas’ hand, docketed on verso. Written for a Green County Circuit Court empanelled grand jury for the September term of 1835. This particular case is Alfred Baker v. John Evans, where the grand jury found that Evans assaulted Baker with “a club of the length of two feet.” Douglas signs as State Attorney. Minor foxing, else quite a fine example. (Est. $300-500)
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Attending a “Debates” reunion. Scarce letters from the “Little Giant’s” wife and son.

355. DOUGLAS, Adele Cutts. Stephen Douglas’ first wife, Martha Martin, was twenty-two years old when they married in 1847. She died in 1853. In 1856 Douglas remarried, taking as his bride twenty-year-old Adele Cutts. Scarce ALS, “Addie Douglas,” April 19,1865, to a Mr. Risling on her intialed letterhead. She writes on friends and personal matters regarding an appointment just four days after Lincoln’s assassination. Soiled and wrinkled along one vertical band at right, otherwise fine. Together with a lovely CDV of Mrs. Douglas. Also; DOUGLAS, Stephen Arnold. Born of Stephen and his first wife, Martha, on November 3, 1850 in Brandon, VT, the sixth Stephen Arnold Douglas in the family lineage. He was a Chicago lawyer and political orator. TLS, August 20, 1908, Chicago, to Benjamin S. Cable on Douglas’s Chicago law office stationery. He writes: “My Dear Sir: I desire to thank you most sincerely for the favor of the transportation just brought me from you by Mr. Peck, – Chicago to Ottawa and return for myself and wife to attend the Lincoln-Douglas Debates Reunion to be held there tomorrow, and I further beg leave to assure you that I most heartily appreciate your kindness.” Pin hole in upper corner, otherwise quite fine. A nice group. (Est. $300-400)
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356. And… to go with the previous lot… a vivid carte of Mrs. Stephen A. Douglas in black mourning dress. Photo by Fredricks of New York, 1862. Pretty. (Est. $75-100)
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357. EVERETT, Edward. (1794-1865) Vice-Presidential candidate with John Bell on the Constitutional Union ticket against Lincoln in 1860, Secretary of State, Massachusetts Senator, Governor. Everett shared the platform with Lincoln at Gettysburg on November 19, 1863.Autograph Letter Signed, 2pp., December 16, 1862, Boston, sending autographs to a collector. In part: “…I also send you…the manuscript of a short speech made by me in Fanueil Hall last summer…I also enclose an autograph of Genl McClellan…” (Not present.) A clean, fun specimen. (Est. $100-150)
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Edward Everett appeals to get a
“valuable” astronomer released from the Army… for a safer job in the Navy!
358. EVERETT, Edward. A great Civil War ALS, 3pp., Boston, MA, November 19, 1862, to Asst. Sec. of the Navy Gustavus Fox. In part: “The friends of Mr. H.P. Tuttle are desirous of obtaining for him the place of assistant paymaster in the Navy. This young gentleman, 24 years of age, has lately been connected with the Observatory at Cambridge, where he has made himself an enviable scientific reputation. Patriotic motives led him, a few months since, to enlist as a common soldier, & he is now in the army in N. Carolina. It is feared that his physique will sink under the hardships & exposures of the field…his life is too valuable to be unnecessarily sacrificed…I should be gratified if you would speak to the Secretary in his favor…” Horace Parnell Tuttle (1839-1923) is credited with the discovery of numerous comets, meteor showers, and asteroids – at least four periodic comets bear his name. Among other accomplishments, he devised the system for transmitting Morse Code via signal lanterns. We know Everett’s efforts in this appeal paid off. Tuttle, who mustered into Co. D, MA 44th Infantry in 1862, was discharged for promotion the following year and entered the Navy. (Est. $150-250)
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American Journalist, founder of New York Tribune, 1872 presidential candidate, Horace Greeley – an ALS to the great John Calhoun.
359. GREELEY, Horace. (1811-72) Democratic presidential candidate 1872, leading publisher and editor. In 1841, Greeley established The New York Tribune, which came to exemplify the highest standards of journalism. A reformer, he opposed slavery, supported free homesteading, advocated the organization of labor and, following the Civil War, favored total amnesty for former rebels. During the war, considered somewhat hostile to Lincoln’s prosecution of the war and was accused of having “Copperhead” sympathies. He came to support the President’s administration and grieved deeply at his murder. (See later in this catalog for a fabulous ticket to hear the publisher/orator speak at a Black church on the martyred President.) Fine content ALS regarding political speech and political issues during the election of 1844. Greeley pens this letter to Senator John C. Calhoun on March 18, 1844 regarding a speaking engagement on political issues in the upcoming Presidential campaign of 1844. Greeley declines the invitation to speak in Connecticut to his Wifes illness. It reads in part: “I learn from Mr. Bacon that you would like to hear me make a plain talk on the Tariff in Plymouth before the election. I very much regret that the illness of my Wife will prevent my accepting your kind offer.” He then adds “Hoping that I shall be able to do you some good through the Tribune, and with a lively trust that the result in your state will be auspicious.” A neatly penned letter, excellent. (Est. $300-500)
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Greeley sets the record straight…
the Governor of Rhode Island
DID NOT vote for Lincoln!
360. GREELEY, Horace. (1811-72) American journalist, reformer, and political force; opponent of slavery; founder of the New York Tribune, Liberal Republican and Democratic candidate for President in 1872. ALS, written on an autograph letter received from Albert S. Paxson of Buckingham, PA of 3/10/1862, in response to his request for information on Governor Sprague of Rhode Island and the 1860 election that put Lincoln in the White House. Greeley responds: “My Dear Sir: I understand that Gov. Sprague did not vote at all for President in 1860. I think he would have preferred the election of Bell and Everett, but saw they had no chance, and he did not want to help Douglas or Breckinridge: so he stood aside and let Lincoln go in. This is as I understood the matter. Yours, Horace Greeley.” A great example with fun content! (Est. $500-750)
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Hannibal Hamlin has no spare Lincoln autographs!
361. HAMLIN, Hannibal. (1809-93) Vice President 1861-64, Democratic Senator and Representative from Maine, Hamlin changed his party affiliation over his anti-slavery sentiments. He was chosen Governor by the Republicans in 1857, resigning to serve in the Senate before joining Lincoln’s ticket. ANS, March 20, 1891, 4 x 2″ on lined paper. Hamlin writes: “I long since parted with the last autograph of Pres’t Lincoln that I could spare.” Fun association with the aged former V.P. writing some 25 years after sharing the Executive office with Lincoln. Bold, clean. (Est. $500-700)
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Lincoln’s closest assistant writes on the President’s genealogy.
362. HAY, John. (1838-1905) In addition to serving closely as one of President Lincoln’s personal secretaries, Hay was Secretary of State under both McKinley and Roosevelt. ALS, on letterhead from “Lafayette Square, Washington, D.C.” Dec. 22 [n.y.], to Frank C. Harris: “Dear Sir, I thank you very much for the interesting paper you have so kindly sent me. I think the Abraham mentioned must have been the half-brother of John Lincoln, the President’s great grandfather — and therefore a cousin of Abraham, the Kentucky Pioneer, the grand father of the President. Yours sincerely, John Hay.” About as pretty – and content-rich an example as you will find! A pristine specimen. (Est. $900-1,200)
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363. [HAY, John.] With ownership attribution to Lincoln’s inner-circle. Poems, Lyrical and Idyllic by E. C. Stedman. (Charles Scribner, NY: 1860) Green cloth cover, 196pp., inscribed on free-endpaper “John Hay, Executive Mansion 1862.” Now… the inscription is definitely in period ink… but not in Hay’s hand. We assume that this is simply an ownership attribution – making this a neat relic! (OPEN)
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364. HARRISON, Benjamin. (1833-1901) Civil War soldier: In 1862 Governor Oliver P. Morton asked Harrison to recruit and command the 70th Regiment of Indiana Volunteers in the Civil War. Colonel Harrison molded his regiment into a well disciplined unit that fought in many battles. His soldiers called him “Little Ben” because he was only 5 feet 6 inches tall. A fearless commander, Harrison rose to the rank of brigadier general. And, by the way, he eventually became President! ADS, a check completely in the hand of Harrison for nine dollars and fifty cents, January 3, 1880. Excellent condition, a fine specimen. (Est. $300-400)
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An extremely rare Andrew Johnson
autograph note signed as President.

365. JOHNSON, Andrew. (1808-75) Johnson was a Tennessee Congressman and Senator who supported the Union over secession, and when he defended the Lincoln administration, he was considered a traitor by the South. Lincoln appointed him Military Governor of Tennessee and chose him to be his second Vice President, becoming President after the assassination. Often clashing with the Radical Republicans, he was impeached though acquitted. During his Presidency, he continued Lincoln’s Reconstruction policy and purchased Alaska. Very rare ANS, [n.p.], [n.d.], signed “Andrew Johnson” in pencil. Johnson wrote: “You will please permit me to introduce to your favorable consideration Mr. Phillips of the N[ew York] Herald. If you can make some appointment that would be suitable to Mr. Philips it will confer a special favor on me. Mr. P. will explain to you the character of the appointment.” The card, which has small staple holes that affect nothing, is in fine condition overall. Unquestionably, Johnson is the rarest Chief Executive in handwritten Presidential material. (Est. $1,800-2,200)
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366. [JOHNSON, Andrew] Printed proclamation by President Johnson, September 9, 1867, on blue paper, signed in type by Johnson and Sec. of State Seward, 8 1/2 x 14″. This Presidential proclamation is both a warning to citizens and notice that the Army and Navy would “assist” the courts – and other civil authorities – with conducting the business of government in still-hostile states. Despite opposition from citizens in North and South Carolina, attempting to bypass enforcement of federal law, the President was exerting Reconstruction policy. This was addressed to former Rebels still bitter about the war and radicals who were intent on punishing the South for the rebellion. H. McCulloch, the Secretary of the Treasury and a carryover from the Lincoln Administration, also signs in type at the top of the proclamation. Docketed by hand at bottom by recipient. Archivally restored in upper and lower left corners, some loss along bottom, quite a scarce document. (Est. $400-600)
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367. [Andrew Johnson – Black Americana] A highly detailed and charged cartoon by Thomas Nast from the September 1, 1866 issue of Harper’s Weekly, on a centerfold sheet measuring 16 x 22″ entitled “Andrew Johnson’s Reconstruction” representing Johnson as a half-hearted reformer playing Iago to the wounded Black veteran’s Othello. Flanked by illustrations of anti-reconstruction riots in Memphis and New Orleans. A few minor marginal chips, horizontal fold at center, else very good. (Est. $150-200)
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Last year we made an error…
this one is the “real McCoy!”
368. LAMON, Ward Hill. (1828-93) Illinois lawyer, later Washington Marshall and Lincoln bodyguard who the President called “my particular friend.” Lamon’s Life of Abraham Lincoln (1872) was based chiefly on material which Lamon bought from W.H. Herndon. 5 1/2 x 3 1/2″ leaf from an autograph album boldly inscribed “Ward H. Lamon, Washington, D.C., May 5, 1866.” A prohibitively rare autograph… the one other example we’ve seen, offered in this catalog last year, turned out to not be “correct.” This one certainly is! (Est. $200-400)
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369. NAST, Thomas. (1840-1902) American political cartoonist whose works in Harper’s Weekly lambasted the Tweed Ring, and made the elephant and donkey recognized as the symbols of the Republican and Democratic parties. D.S., Morristown, New Jersey, June 16, 1896, a check drawn on Nast’s account in the amount of $2.50. A really nice example. (Est. $150-180)
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Lincoln’s Secretaries prepare for the President to greet his generals… the very day he signs the Emancipation Proclamation!
370. NICOLAY, JohnGeorge and STANTON, Edwin McMasters. Autograph Letter Signed with additional Autograph Endorsement Signed on “Executive Mansion” stationery, Washington, Dec. 29, 1862. Nicolay’s note to the “Hon. Secretary of War” reads: “Dear Sir, You will please notify the officers of the Army that the President will receive them on New Year’s day at half past eleven o’clock, precisely. Your obt. Servt Jno. G. Nicolay.” In pen at the bottom, Stanton replies: “The Adjutant General will issue instructions in conformity with the foregoing notice. Edwin M. Stanton Sec of War.” On New Year’s Day, 1863, Lincoln met with his officers in an official reception at the Executive Mansion. Sec. Welles and other colleagues likewise attended the celebration. Following this warm gathering, Secretary of State Seward convenes the Cabinet in a room at the Mansion where Lincoln signed the final draft of the Emancipation Proclamation and ordered copies to be distributed. An incredible piece of history from that fateful day… with parallel correspondence from two of Lincoln’s closest advisers. One light vertical fold, overall bold and clean. (Est. $1,500-2,500)
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One of “Bull Run” Russell’s earliest war reports.
371. RUSSELL, William H. (1820-1907) Known as “Bull Run” Russell, noted correspondent covering the Civil War for the London Times. His unflattering account of Union conduct at First Manassas earned him the enmity of both officers and soldiers with an attempt actually made on his life. A fine content and rare book, The Civil War in America (Boston: Garnier A. Fuller, 1861), 189pp., 8vo. ( 4.5 x 7.5″), titled paper wraps with later hard cloth binding. Part one of a serial in issue No. 1 of Fuller’s Modern Age, the book includes Russell’s wartime letters from Washington, on March 29, 1861 through June 19, 1861. A fascinating look at the early days of the Civil War before the slaughter began in earnest at Bull Run Creek on July 21, 1861. Cleanly mounted on the inside front cover and front blank leaf is a bold Autograph Letter Signed, 2pp. 4.25 x 7″, Washington, October 7, [n.y., likely 1861] declining an invitation to deliver a lecture. At this time, Russell was a bit of a celebrity in Washington. Signature bold, pages clean, overall fine condition. A scarce, early volume at the outset of the war. (Est. $400-600)
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372. STODDARD, William O. (1835-1925) One of Lincoln’s private White House secretaries, a clerk who later penned numerous books – both on Lincoln and highly enjoyed children’s stories. Signed Photograph. A 4.25 x 6″ photo mounted on an 8 x 10 3/4″ board signed at bottom and dated 1910. Imprint by W.C. & L.C. Parker of Morristown, N.J., moderate discoloration to photo at top right, minor glue stain at top and some loss of board at top and lower left. Together with a cabinet card featuring Stoddard, by Kleindinst of Madison, N.J. Small black spot on Stoddard’s chin, minor loss of board at lower right. Also, a cabinet card of William Stoddard’s daughter, by Pach Brothers of New York. Three (3) items together. (Est. $300-500)
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Lincoln’s Sec. of State forwards an
“intercepted” Southern paper…
providing military intelligence!

373. SEWARD, William H. LS, Dept. of State, Washington, January 9, 1863, to Major General Halleck. Marked “Unofficial” in the upper left corner. “My Dear general, I send you an intercepted Southern paper, thinking there may possibly be something in it, interesting or useful to you. Yours very truly, William H. Seward.” Henry Halleck had recently assumed his new position as Commander and Chief of the Army following the success of his subordinates at Fort Donelson and Shiloh during the summer of 1862. While we don’t know what was said about Halleck in the Southern paper to which Seward refers, we can suppose it may have had something to do with Halleck’s one try at a field command during the war, at Corinth, Mississippi, where his timid advance allowed the Confederates to withdraw at their leisure. Minor vertical crease, a bold signature on an interesting war-date document. (Est. $700-900)
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374. SEWARD, William H. Free-franked cover with postal-cancellation and “FREE” stamp addressed by Lincoln’s Sec. of State to a New Yorker. One small tape repair at top to the left of franking signature, a fine specimen. (Est. $60-80)
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375. STANTON, Edwin McMasters. (1814-69) Secretary of War under Lincoln and Johnson. His dismissal by Johnson precipitated the impeachment. A.L.S. 8 x 9.5″ on War Department letterhead, Washington, Feb. 28, 1865. Less than two months before Lincoln’s assassination, Stanton writes the Chair of the House Military Committee, Robert C. Schenck: “The proposed amendment submitted was designed as a check on application for rank beyond that fixed by law for the chiefs of Bureaus. I will examine it and if found to be adequate for the bill will send it to you in a more distinct shape…” Irregularly trimmed, not affecting text, usual folds, otherwise fine condition. A nice example. (Est. $200-300)
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376.SUMNER, Charles. (1811-74) Senator, strident abolitionist, intimate of Lincoln White House. AES, on a letter by Lt. Edward Southworth, Hannover, PA, Dec. 8, 1864, to Sumner asking if he can arrange transportation of two officers’ wives from New York to Florida. Sumner responds on verso endorsing: “Can passes be given to the wives of officers named herein? Charles Sumner, Senate Chamber 15th Dec. `64.” Minor separation at fold, otherwise fine. (Est. $150-200)
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“Old Neptune” advertises for military
suppliers in Northeastern newspapers of note.
377. WELLES, Gideon. (1802-78) Sec. of the Navy affectionately known as “Old Neptune.” Manuscript LS by Welles as Sec. of the Navy. Washington, October 10, 1864, 2pp., on imprinted Navy Department letterhead. To Major W.B. Slack directing him to advertise proposals for rations, clothing and military equipment in several newspapers. He lists 21 newspapers in which the ads are to run and instructs him: “…Before sending out the advertisements you are desired to consult the Department in person in reference to the price to be paid each paper…” Interestingly, Wells did not include Greeley’s Tribune which was, of course, hostile to Union interests. At the time of writing, the complete collapse of the Confederacy was only months away. Any doubts about the possibility of Union failure had evaporated when Sherman marched into Atlanta on September 2, helping assure Lincoln’s election to a second term as President. A great piece of history. (Est. $600-800)
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War-date orders from the Secretary of the Navy regarding acceptable disabilities!
378. WELLES, Gideon. Manuscript Letter Signed, 2pp., June 13, 1864, Navy Department letterhead. To James Greene, Naval Asylum, Philadelphia. Orders the convening of a physical examination board providing exact instructions on its conduct. The letter outlines that officers ordered to report before the head of the Naval Asylum must be examined for injuries (“loss of limb, impaired senses of hearing, sight…”) and once facts are determined, must make recommendations regarding promotion or retirement. Great content… and a pretty example! (Est. $300-500)
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379. [Lincoln Associates] Autograph album, maintained over 25-plus years by James H. Mandeville of Penn Yan, N.Y. and Washington, D.C.; signed and dated by him (Dec. 1861) on the first page. Sm. 8vo.; orig. thick brown leather, w/decorative design of an album and quill (in gilt) surrounded by foliage (in black) on front and back covers; a.e.g. The majority of signatures found in this album are from Mandeville’s friends, relatives and apparent classmates and co-workers, but interspersed among them is a small but remarkable group of autographs by noted personalities who had close connections to Abraham Lincoln: “M[athew] B. Brady” (famed photographer, especially known for his Lincoln portraits and Civil War views; an extremely rare, fine and bold signature at the top of a page, signed lower down by unidentified others); “Ward H. Lamon” (a law partner and close friend of Lincoln from his Illinois days, appointed by him Marshal of the District of Columbia); “R[obert] T. Lincoln” (the President’s eldest son, later Sec. War for Garfield and Arthur; a rare 1860’s-vintage signature, on a page by itself); “Mark W. Delahay / U S District Judge / for the District of Kansas” on a page with “J.H. Lane / Kansas” (Delahay, a collateral relative of Mary Todd Lincoln, was closely associated with her husband in Republican politics, hosted his 1859 Kansas visit, and received his judicial appointment from him; Lane, Kansas Senator and “Jayhawker”, was close to Lincoln early in the war and led the capital’s “Frontier Guards” who were bivouacked at the White House); “M[ontgomery] Blair/of Maryland/P[ost] M[aster] Genl” (in Lincoln’s Cabinet); and Civil War Congressmen and strong Lincoln supporters “Wm. D. Kellley” and “John Sherman” (who later served at times as Sec. of War and Sec. Treasury). Binding with light wear to extrems.; pages with light handling soil and marginal toning. (Est. $1,500-2,000)
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In the middle of the war, correspondence between two
publishing icons on “electrotypes” of Lincoln. Harper writes to Moses Beach on available prints.
380. HARPER, James Welsey. One of the four Harpers who formed the publishing house of Harper & Brothers in 1833. Manuscript L.S. 7.5 x 9.5″ on Harper & Brothers letterhead, New York, Nov 5, 1862 to New York Sun publisher Moses Yale Beach informing him that “We cannot send you electrotypes of Mr. Lincoln & Gen. Rosecrans till tomorrow. Shall we send them?” Moses Yale Beach (1800-68) was at first an inventor and then a newspaper owner and financial wizard. He owned/published the New York Sun – the best and most successful of the penny newspapers. Beach was quite innovative in his gathering of news. He had a fleet of his own sailing vessels that met ships down the bay and were the first to acquire news from Europe. He had special trains running between New York and Baltimore, carrier pigeons, and horse expresses to Albany. He also had horse expresses that carried news from Bristol to London and during the Mexican War set up a special railroad news service between Mobile and Montgomery, Alabama. In his constant war with other newspapers in New York he realized that a tremendous amount of money was being wasted. This led to a meeting at the Sun offices between Beach, the Herald, Tribune, Courier and Enquirer, Express, etc. in which Beach proposed what became The Associated Press. Usual folds, one partially split, otherwise very good and bright. Wonderful association. (Est. $200-300)
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THE PINKERTON PAGES

A tremendous rarity:
the only Civil War ALS in private hands.

381. PINKERTON, Allan. (1819-84) American detective, founding Chief of the U.S. Secret Service, head of the Pinkerton National Detective Agency. Born in Glasgow, Scotland, a cooper by trade, Pinkerton emigrated to the United States in 1842 opening a cooper’s shop in West Dundee, Ill. That storefront became a station on the Underground Railroad. His discovery and capture of a band of counterfeiters led to an 1846 appointment as the county sheriff. In 1850 he became the first city detective of the Chicago police force. That year he also opened a private detective agency which enjoyed considerable success in solving train and express-company robberies. In 1861, he foiled a plot to kidnap or assassinate Abraham Lincoln — convincing the President-elect to re-route his train trip through Baltimore on his way to Washington. During the Civil War Pinkerton organized and directed an extensive espionage system behind Confederate lines. In 1869, his agency secured evidence on which the Molly Maguires were broken-up. After Pinkerton’s death, the agency was continued by his sons, Robert A. Pinkerton and William A. Pinkerton – a business entity that continues to this day.

Autograph Letter Signed “Allan Pinkerton” to S.D. Young, Superintendent of the Pennsylvania Rail Road, Washington, D.C., June 9, 1862. One page, 4to., ruled, small tape burn from reinforcement on verso not affecting text, docketed below signature. The Union’s chief spymaster – whose logo of an “All-Seeing Eye” engendered the appellation “private eye” – writes:
“I am in camp near Richmond but have to send A.K. Littlefield from thence to Chicago on important business. If consistent can you leave a pass for him from Harrisburg to Pittsburg and return, at the Ticket Office in Harrisburg. Allan Pinkerton.“
This letter was written as Stonewall Jackson’s troops continued to decimate Union forces in one major engagement after another. Pinkerton, serving as General George McClellan’s chief detective in the Department of Ohio, returned to Washington in April 1861 to formally organize the Secret Service. In 1862, operating out of McClellan’s camp, he gathered information from captured Confederates and runaway slaves on enemy troop strength. He helped convince “Little Mac” that his troops were vastly outnumbered and ill-prepared for continued assault. Three months later, Pinkerton had a private meeting with Lincoln at the White House, on September 22, to discuss the failed Antietam campaign, the withdrawal of forces, and the possible removal of McClellan. The “great hesitator” would be removed from his command two months later at which time Pinkerton also stepped off the field. American Book Prices Current lists no example of a Pinkerton ALS in the market over the last thirty years. A survey of several major dealers likewise failed to yield an example. The very few Pinkerton letters known to remain extant – save those found in the corporate archive now on deposit at the Library of Congress – were written in the 1870s, well after the war. We believe this to be the only Civil War-dated letter in the market.
(Est. $4,000-5,000)
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382. Lincoln’s detective, Allan Pinkerton, posed in the group. A carte portrait presenting some of McClellan’s staff in the field at Antietam, Pinkerton found second from right. Some loss to back of board from album removal, typical rubbing to mount, an early print on a gold-ruled board, exceptional clarity and contrast… a rich portrait taken by Alexander Gardner at the time Lincoln visited with McClellan in the field on October 3, 1862. A rare, important photograph. (Est. $400-600)
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Sending instructions to his illustrator… work commissioned for his landmark book on Lincoln and forming the Secret Service.
383. [Allan PINKERTON]
A fine set of three letters, we believe secretarially signed, two manuscript and the third typed, all written to the illustrator Joseph B. Beall of Philadelphia in which Pinkerton discusses a group of proposed illustrations to be rendered for his book, The Spy of the Rebellion. In a typed letter, 6pp., New York, October 26, 1882 on Pinkerton’s National Detective Agency letterhead, he notes that “No. 1… should represent a correct likeness of Gen. McClellan and myself. Of course, the General is in uniform, but not with a star on his breast, for that is useless. I suppose you have a likeness of myself, but you know me very well, so I need not say any more in regard to this. I was in blue, but no insignia of uniform about me…. No. 2 is one of my men, Timothy Webster, disguised… No. 3 is a colored boy firing a revolver. He has killed a citizen, who, by the way, is a rebel secessionist… No. 12 is Timothy Webster [see plate opposite p. 542 in the book]…Sentenced and executed by Jefferson Davis… as a spy. Of course, the soldiers and officers are in grey, and Webster’s death warrant was just read to him. Of course, his hands should be pinioned but his arms are straight down. The woman is Hattie Lewis, one of our employees during the rebellion. Webster, however, acted like a man, and the secret of a spy died with him. He is the hero of the book… He was calm and would not yield to give a single item while he lived… The handcuffs should not be used. Let it appear as if the prisoner was bound with rope, and have two or three chairs in the room. Have Webster appear life-like. Now, my friend, Mr. Beale, I have given you the best possible description of the scenes. Mr. Carleton wishes to have them done in ten or twelve days…” Two other manuscript letters, each one page, dated 1882 and 1883 deal with the billing and delivery of the illustrations to the printer. Interestingly Beall is not credited as an illustrator, only the engraver is noted on the actual plates in the book. Great history! (Est. $400-500)
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He guarded President-elect Lincoln
on his trip to Washington.
384. PINKERTON, William. Son of Allan Pinkerton who, with his brother Robert, ran the Pinkerton National Detective Agency after their father’s death in 1884. During his tenure, the Pinkerton agency became well-known for their disruption of organized labor and protection of strike breakers. Pinkerton detectives figured prominently in the violence during the Homestead Strike of 1892 in which they killed ten strikers. William Pinkerton gained national prominence by solving the infamous Adams Express robberies and guarding President-elect Lincoln on his way to Washington. A scarce signed cabinet card photograph by Gibson Art Galleries, Chicago measuring 4 x 5.5″ on a 6 x 9″ mount signed “Very truly yours Wm. A. Pinkerton” on the photo. Very fine condition. Pristine. (Est. $500-700)
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Inscribed by his son Robert.
385.PINKERTON, Robert. Inscribed copy of his father’s study, The Spy of the Rebellion: Being a True History of the Spy System of the United States Army during the Late Rebellion, Allan Pinkerton. (New York: G.W. Carleton and Co., 1883), 688p., 8vo., (6.5 x 9.5″). Inscribed on the front blank flyleaf by his son to E. A. Newell. Illustrated with full page plates after engravings with additional illustrations. Bound in pictorial gilt decorated cloth with the logo of the Pinkerton Agency – “We Never Sleep” in gilt on front cover. Besides being the founder of the world’s most famous detective agency, Allan Pinkerton was chief of the Secret Service from 1861 to 1862. During his tenure with the Secret Service, he managed to foil an assassination plot in Baltimore while Lincoln was traveling to Washington for his inauguration as President. Volume details his numerous adventures during the Civil War and provides a fascinating and concise detailing of the early U.S. Intelligence services. Front board a tad loose, light rubbing to boards, pages very clean and bright. (Est. $400-600)
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A rare salesman’s sample copy.
386. A remarkable find, an actual salesman’s “abridged” version of Pinkerton’s book, The Spy of the Rebellion. (G.W. Carleton & Co., NY: 1886) Bound in titled red cloth boards with gilt eye logo of the Pinkerton Agency: “We Never Sleep” and an example of the spine on the back board accomplished in gilt. Bears enlarged versions of numerous illustrations found in the original. At the end of the book there are seven ledger pages designed to record subscriptions for the book. The first subscription page bears two names (obviously this was not a very successful salesman), below a notice declaring “This large, handsome, octavo volume, contains nearly 700 pages, printed from beautiful clear type, on fine paper, made expressly for the work. Richly and profusely Illustrated. Elegantly bound, and furnished at the following remarkably low prices: English Cloth, Gold and Black Enameled, – – – $3.50 Strongly Bound in Sheep, Library Style, – – 4.50.” Affixed to the inside back cover is an example of the spine in “Library Style”. Very minor rubbing at top and bottom of boards, pages lightly foxed, but overall clean. A superb example, the only one we have seen – likely the only copy extant. (Est. $200-300)
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The Successor to Pinkerton.
387. Lafayette C. Baker. History of the United States Secret Service. (Philadelphia: L.C. Baker, 1867) 704pp., tooled cloth boards and titled spine. Baker succeed Pinkerton as head of the Secret Service and Lafayette largely owed his appointment to Sec. of War Edwin M. Stanton but suspected the secretary of corruption and was eventually demoted for tapping his telegraph lines and packed off to New York. He was quickly recalled, however, after the assassination of President Lincoln in 1865. Within two days of his arrival in Washington, Baker’s agents in Maryland had made four arrests and had the names of two more conspirators, including the actual presidential assassin John Wilkes Booth. Before the month was out Booth, along with David Herold were found holed up in a barn and Booth was shot and killed. Baker was promoted to the rank of Brigadier General and received a generous share of the $100,000 reward offered for the apprehension of the President’s killer. The following year, however, Baker was sacked from his position as government spymaster. President Johnson accused him of spying on him, a charge Baker admitted in this book which was published in response. He also announced that he had had Booth’s diary in his possession which was being suppressed by the Department of War and Secretary Stanton. When the diary was eventually produced Baker claimed that eighteen vital pages were missing. It was suggested that these would implicate Stanton in the assassination. Baker died from meningitis in 1868, scarcely eighteen months after his explosive allegations, leading some to suggest that he was killed by the War Dept. to silence him. Wear to boards and spine, boards binding still fairly tight, pages very clean. (Est. $100-150)

AUTOGRAPHS – MILITARY
BOTH UNION AND CONFEDERATE
388. ALLEN, William Wirt. (1835-94) Confederate major general who commanded a brigade of cavalry with Wheeler at Atlanta, also wounded at Perryville. Rare war-date A.E.S. on the verso of a manuscript D.S., 1p. 4to., “Graham Station, N.C.“, Apr. 17, 1865, a medical certificate of disability issued to Pvt. W. A. Lipscomb and signed by two surgeons. On the verso, Allen approves the discharge: “Headquarters Allen’s Div. April 18th/65 Approved & respectfully forwarded. Wm. W. Allen Brig. Gen. Com“. Some stains and a few tiny holes generally not affecting the endorsement, also endorsed by Capt. D. P. Forney, a Col. D. Blakey, and E. L. Lewis. Of particular interest is the fact that Allen endorses this document a full nine days after Lee’s surrender at Appomattox! (Est. $500-700)
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Rare Kentucky cavalry appointment signed by Robert Anderson of Ft. Sumter fame only months after the start of the Civil War.
389. ANDERSON, Robert. (1805-71) The “Defender of Fort Sumter,” Anderson was a pro-slavery Kentuckian who remained loyal to the Union in the most difficult circumstances… while under bombardment! DS, Sept. 23, 1864, Louisville, KY. The document is on Head Quarters Department of Cumberland stationery. The appointment for J.B. Alexander reads, “Sir, by virtue of authroity in me vested by the President of the United States, I hereby appoint you 1st Liutenant of the 1st Regiment of Kentucky Cavalry volunteers…” Signed by Robert Anderson, Brig. General Commanding Dep’t. A fine item. (Est. $600-800)
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One of the first uses of the phrase
“the Afro-American race.”
An important missive.
390. BANKS, Nathaniel P. (1816-94). Union Major General, veteran of Shenandoah Valley campaign who later replaced Benjamin Butler as military governor of Louisiana. Lengthy ALS “N. P. Banks” as Congressman, 4pp, Waltham, MA, Sep 9, 1889. Superb political content. A closely written appeal to Senator George F. Hoar (1826-1904) pleading the case of a black constituent and deploring unfair hiring practices in Navy Yard and other government positions. In very small part, regarding John D. Powell, Jr.: “a remarkable man…His energy and activity are unlimited. He knows no fear, is greatly skilled in obtaining information in what relates to the opinions & actions of men & though often disappointed in his expectations is not disheartened. These with other good qualities are balanced by frailties of his race, ‘The Afro American Race’ as he styles it…In the Congressional contest of the 5th District he did good work, as manager of ‘The Boston Advocate’ and always came to the support of other men’s ideas when his own were not adopted…he is a valuable man & ought to be cheerfully & gladly sustained in his request & need of Government employment. I have done for him all I could…” Banks describes his repeated but frustrated efforts to assist Mr. Powell and the intent of government employees to hire like-minded persons regardless of qualifications. He informs Senator Hoar of the current naval yard storekeeper who is “reputed to have been a deserter from the Union army” and that he was transferred to accommodate the appointment of another political friend of “Mr. Lodge” at Washington over Mr. Powell who was indeed qualified. Banks describes other similar instances. He concludes, “…Nothing good can come out of it. I see men of the Union Army constantly who tell me they have no chance, and the same of the Union Navy! That is not right! It is the same with Mr. Powell & his compatriots. They have no chance. They cannot even ask for place or employment & of course don’t get. I walked the entire distance from the…Hotel to Fanueil Hall on the day President Harrison was recd. there. It was a magnificent reception. But I saw few colored people out that day. Their numbers may be small, but if they turn upon the leaders of the Administration, it will be a wreck of one side or the other. I do not know who has a better right to ask…the favor of honest work & pay than the Union soldiers & sailors and they who lead the Emancipated race of Americans….” Darkly penned and signed, adding “M. C.” Fine. (Est. $400-500)
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Superb war-date ALS of Beauregard on: “…the drawings and sketches… 1st Corps. Army of Potomac… drawings of the battlefield of Manassas.”
391. BEAUREGARD, Pierre G. T. ALS, January 27, 1862, 2pp., darkly penned and signed twice with the initials “GTB” and flourish. There is minor loss of a tiny area at top and bottom left, affecting only one letter, the “P” in “P.S.“. The letter reads in full: “Dear Col. 1. Are those flag drawings finished? 2. Order Mr. Grant to mark all the drawings & sketches in his possession `1st Corps Army of Potomac – so that we may reclaim them if ever we come back – 3. Order Private Ammen on topographical duty to turn in his sketches to Mr. Grant… and to Qr. Mr. Dept. & report to his Regt. as soon thereafter as possible acknowledging properly his services. I will call to see you today. G.T.B. P. S. Has Mr. Grant ever duplicated those drawings of the battle field of Manassas? I had given him orders to do so as soon as practicable. I want to take the copies with me to go with the copy of my report. G.T.B.” The Battle of Manassas was of course also known as the Battle of Bull Run where Union forces were routed by the Confederates in a battle watched by Washington residents who had come by carriage expecting to see the war won in one day. This letter shows Beauregard in his full glory.
(Est. $2,000-2,500)
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392. BEAUREGARD, Pierre G. T. (1818-93) Confederate major general who initiated the attack on Fort Sumter that started the Civil War. He also led with distinction at First Bull Run, Shiloh, and in the defense of Richmond. AES, Aug 13, 1865, New Orleans. An autograph endorsement signed “Recd. at N.O. Augt 13th 1865 G.T.B” at the bottom of the second page of Beauregard’s copy of a letter from William T. Sherman (the copy of Sherman’s letter was secretarially written and signed). Sherman was responding to Beauregard’s letter requesting his personal papers and effects that were seized during the Civil War. In small part: “…I have sent both to Genl Hoffman at Washington with this Endorsement…’they should be returned to him as something too small for a great Government to notice…’“. He suggests other channels he might pursue and concludes: “…all conventions should be religiously kept, for on them are based the most Sacred Rights of War and consequent Peace…“. Chipping to top left corner of second sheet. (Est. $1,500-2,000)
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393. [Beauregard] Stirring 5 x 8″ printed circular from General P.G.T. Beauregard and boldly signed in ink by his adjutant, Captain John M. Otey, with period inked instruction “To be read to each Corps.” On letterhead reading “Head Quarters of the Forces,” Corinth, Miss., May 2, 1862. In this oft-quoted document, General Beauregard, who had replaced Albert Sidney Johnston when he was killed at Shiloh, implores the soldiers of the combined Army of Tennessee and Army of Mississippi to greet the “invaders of our soil” with fortitude and resolve in the pending “shock of battle” where “we shall recover more than we have lately lost!” Morale had plummeted in Southern ranks as Confederate soldiers had marched back to Corinth following the battle at Pittsburg Landing three weeks before. At Corinth, Beauregard built fortifications and awaited an attack from General Halleck that never came. By late May, Beauregard realized Corinth must be evacuated, not only because Halleck’s army was significantly larger, but also due to the lack of water in Corinth and disease among Southern troops. Although Beauregard was successful in withdrawing his army safely, he himself left his army citing illness (possibly a nervous breakdown) and was then relieved by Davis. Discoloration at fold, some darkening at center, else very fine. (Est. $1,200-1,500)
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394 BEAUREGARD, Pierre G. T. War-date signed and hand-addressed envelope front panel, hand-carried to one “Col. L. C. Brackett at Variety Club” and signed at top: “From Gen’l Beauregard“. Sold with an oval portrait carte, Beauregard in pre-war uniform, backstamp by C. C. Giers, Nashville. Some soiling and a glue stain at lower margin, else fine. (Est. $400-500)
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395. BRAGG, Braxton. (1817-76) Confederate major general who served under Albert Sidney Johnston in Kentucky, and led at Shiloh, Perryville and Stones River, relieved for his poor performance at Chickamauga and Chattanooga. ALS, “Braxton Bragg” adding rank, Jefferson Barracks, Jan. 11, 1850, with integral postal cover and wax seal with Bragg’s monogram. In part: “…I am informed by Surgeon Finley that he has chosen the quarters which I occupy at present…I select for my own use the house…occupied by Capt. K. [?]…I regret the necessity I am under…“. Minor paper loss right upper corner not affecting text, overall very good. A fine specimen. (Est. $500-800)
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The largest signed presentation photograph we have seen!
396. BUTTERFIELD, Daniel. (1831-1901) Union major general who commanded a brigade at Bull Run and led a corps in the desperate assault on Marye’s Heights. Butterfield is also credited with writing “Taps.” Massive 16 x 19″ presentation Inscribed Signed Photograph: “To the brave men who served under my command in days gone by and who are now my comrades in the G. A. R. & belong to Post 353 – Greenpoint Long Island – with kind regards of their old commander.” Dampstains on left and right edges, light bank of mottling at knee level, does not detract, uneven tone on verso. A really impressive item! (Est. $1,000-1,500)
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Lee’s Chief of Staff charges an officer with “dodging behind a stump“
and self-inflicting a wound!
397. CHILTON, Robert H. (1815-79) Confederate Brigadier General, Robert E. Lee’s Chief of Staff. He signed the famous “lost order” of the Antietam campaign and led forces at the Wilderness and Spotsylvania. Quite scarce war-date manuscript DS “R. H. Chilton“, 2pp., March 8, 1863, legal folio, Headquarters Department of Northern Virginia, Special Orders #36, the finding of a Court of Inquiry convened at the request of Lt. J. Morris, Co E, 35th Georgia Regiment. Excellent content regarding the alleged misdeeds of Morris: “…at the Battle of Seven Pines after dodging behind a stump 110 yards in the rear of his company…left his company at the Battle of Mechanicsville and went to Richmond.. .inflicted the wound on himself in order to avoid the dangers of the fight…” Portion of second leaf removed at time (no affect), light age, very good. An interesting specimen with war content. (Est. $200-300)
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398. CLARK, Charles. (1811-77) Confederate Brigadier General, Major General of Mississippi Militia, and wartime Governor of Mississippi. Scarce wardate partly printed DS, as Governor, March 9, 1864, Macon, Miss. Issuing a warrant: “…in favor of Capt. W L Williams, atty of S Reeves, for Two hundred twenty five Dollars for one horse by Gen. Glevelson, impressed under the provisions of `An act to authorize the impressment of slaves and other personal property for military purposes…” A very fine example. (Est. $200-300)
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399. CLAY, Cecil. (1842-1907) Union Brevet Brigadier General, 58th Pennsylvania; awarded Medal of Honor for action at Fort Harrison, VA (September 29, 1864), where he lost an arm while leading a charge. Wardate partly printed ADS, as Captain, Company Commander, June 25, 1862, at Portsmouth. A soldier’s disability certificate signed in the text and again at conclusion. Quite a fine example. (Est. $75-150)
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The “Little Drummer Boy” marches in Herbert Hoover’s Inauguration.
400. CLEM, John L. (1851-1937) Known as both “The Drummer Boy of Chickamauga” and “The Drummer Boy of Shiloh,” Clem “enlisted” as a drummer at the ripe old age of ten. At 12, he captured a Confederate colonel at Chickamauga. Clem was twice wounded at Atlanta. He remained in active service longer than anyone in U.S. military history, retiring as a brigadier general. Fine ALS, [n.d.], War Department, on stationery of the Fredericksburg & Spotsylvania Battlefields Memorial Commission, light toning at usual folds, to Charles Fay. Includes postal-canceled transmittal envelope addressed by Clem dated February 16, 1929 affixed to album leaf. In part: “We are kept busy here & will be very busy until after the Inauguration & represent the Commander-in-Chief G.A.R. in the parade. Ten of us are the `Guard of Honor’ to the President. Expect great crowds.” A fun specimen! (Est. $200-300)
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“I have been in fourteen bloody battles…”
401. DENNIS, Elias S. (1812-94) War-date ALS, with affixed clipped signature, 3pp., Vicksburg, MS, November 7, 1863, on “Headquarters, First Division, 17th Army Corps,” letterhead, from General Dennis to his sister. Dennis had a fine war record including fighting at Fort Donelson, in Tennessee and during the Vicksburg campaign. He writes, in part: “…How many…times have I thought of you and your family since this terrible war commenced. I have been…in fourteen bloody battles…Dear sister, your children shall never have cause to blush with shame when…the name of their Uncle is mentioned. I intend to come out of this war with all the honors my country can bestow on a soldier or die in the field…” Damp stains along left margin, all quite legible; much more fabulous content. (Est. $200-300)
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402. DIX, John A. (1798-1879), Union Maj. Gen. of Volunteers, renowned for his order to “shoot…on the spot” anyone tearing down the U.S. flag; Sec. War Stanton’s conduit for disseminating war news (including that of Lincoln’s murder) while headquartered in N.Y.C., the country’s telegraph hub. Engraved construction stock certificate of the Mississippi & Missouri Railroad Co., signed by Dix as President, 1 page, oblong small 4to, N.Y., n.d. (1850’s). Unissued; in rich blue on light paper, with beautiful central vignette of Indians, buffalo and steam train plus smaller ones of steamboat and warrior with tomahawk. The Mississippi and Missouri co-owned the first railroad bridge across the Mississippi River, between Rock Island, Ill. and Davenport, Iowa. When it was hit in 1856 by the steamboat Effie Afton, which burned and sank, the resulting lawsuit became one of Abraham Lincoln’s most famous cases, in which he declared that the right of railroads to bridge rivers equaled that of steamboats to navigate them. Excellent condition and quite attractive. (Est. $100-200)
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Doubleday lobbies hard…
assigned to defend Washington despite the fact that “Sec. Stanton did not issue the order…”
A great, war-date letter.
403. DOUBLEDAY, Abner. (1819-93) Union major general said to have fired Fort Sumter’s first shot. He led the 1st Corps at Gettysburg after Reynolds’s death but is best remembered (and mistakenly credited) as the father of modern baseball. Fine war-date ALS, 2pp., March 2, 1862, Washington D.C., to Col. William H. Christian, commander of Fort Lyon, VA., regarding Doubleday’s appointment as Inspector of Washington’s defenses. Doubleday writes: “My Dear Colonel, I have been shelved for the present by being placed in command of the Forts on this side of the River. My friends are very indignant and as Sec. Stanton did not issue the order they think they can have it changed. You may rest assured I shall use every exertion to go into the Field and as Senators Wade and Chandler & others are disposed to use their influence in my behalf I am not without hopes they may be successful. If so, you may rely upon my obtaining your Regiment if possible. If you chance to visit the City, call at my office. It is still located in the same place. Yours Very Truly, A. Doubleday.” With original yellow transmittal cover. Letter is very fine, slight loss to cover at top, very minor soiling, else good. Together with original Special Order 54 assigning Doubleday as Inspector of Washington’s defenses, February 24, 1862. Issued from “Hd. Qur’s, Army of the Potomac, Washington“, the Order reads: “Brig. General Abner Doubleday Volunteer service is assigned to duty as Inspector of the defensive works about Washington, and to the immediate charge of those on the Maryland side. By command of Major General McClellan (signed), S. Williams Office Chief of Artillery.” Very good condition. A great pair of documents with content revealing Doubleday’s commitment to being assigned the post he desires. (Est. $1,000-1,500)
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404. [DOUBLEDAY]Gettysburg Made Plain. A succinct account of the campaign and battles, with the aid of one diagram and twenty-nine maps. (New York: The Century Co., copyright 1888). 12mo. 59 pp., [1 (blank)] p.; illus. First edition; printed at the DeVinne Press. The author, the mythical creator of baseball, took command of I Corps at Gettysburg after General Reynolds was killed. On the third day of the battle he played a role in the repulse of Pickett’s charge. A concise narrative with brief, but good analysis of the dilemmas facing the opposing commanders. Original printed and illustrated wrappers. Small corner clip to cover; overall very good. (Est. $80-100)
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405. HOOD, John Bell. (1831-79) Confederate Lt. General who led the “Texas Brigade” at Second Bull Run and Antietam, and under Longstreet Fredericksburg, Gettysburg, and Chickamauga, where he lost a limb. Scarce signature “John B. Hood” and pre-war rank as Brevet Second Lieutenant of Infantry, cut from a document. A bit closely-cut, slight toning, else a very good and most affordable example. (Est. $300-400)
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406. HOOKER, Joseph. (1814-79) Union Major General known as “Fighting Joe”; led Army of the Potomac. ALS, 4pp., September 3, 1865, Astor House, to John Thompson. Interesting content, in small part: “You acted wisely in dropping your Mexican friend…The fort is impractical…New York is full of such schemes. In all of the new states and territories many work on projects…without the necessary means. Hence to go into them is risky in the extreme…I want you to take a position in the Govt…The attack you refer to comes from one of McClellan’s strikers & quit the Army because he could not be promoted from his disloyalty. He was a slave owner & all his sympathies were with the South. Praise from him would bring ruin…” Mounting strip at top margin and very minor brushing of ink, otherwise very good. An example of seeking to “set the record straight” in the immediate aftermath of the war. (Est. $250-350)
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407. HOWARD, Oliver Otis. (1830-1909) Union Major General who commanded right wing of Sherman’s Army in march to the sea. Fought at Gettysburg, awarded Congressional Medal of Honor having lost an arm while valiantly commanding forces at the Seven Pines. In 1865, Howard became the first Commissioner of the Freedmen’s Bureau. Fine war-date ALS “O. O. Howard, Maj Gen.“, February 7, 1864, Augusta, ME. In part: “I am perfectly willing to contribute my mite to your benevolent enterprise and through you to thank the nobile [sic] & patriotic ladies who propose to continue their efforts in behalf of the soldiers. May God bless them and their cause…” A wonderful example – no doubt a response to an appeal from a group of Sanitary Fair ladies! (Est. $150-150)
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408. INGALLS, Rufus. (1818-93) Union brigadier general, Chief Quartermaster of the Army of the Potomac. A group of three pieces including a good content war-date L.S., 4 x 6.75″, “Hd. Qrs.” June 14, 1864, in pencil, to the master of the vessel Spaulding. Reads in part: “…If you see any ferry boats in the James river, tell them to come to Wyler landing as rapidly as possible. If you meet any pontoons in the river… hurry them forwards…” At the time, Grant was facing Lee’s forces at Cold Harbor with little success. Grant chose to shift his attack to the other side of the James river and advance on Petersburg, and on the same day this letter was sent, Grant’s 450 military engineers built the famous James River Bridge in just eight hours. Mounted, otherwise very good. Together with a second penciled L.S., (but signed in ink), 5 x 8″, “Headquarters Army of the Potomac“, July 14, 1863 enclosing papers for a receipt of property. Very good. Together with a Brady C.D.V. bust portrait of Ingalls, in fine condition. Together, three (3) pieces. (Est. $150-180)
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409. (John D. Imboden). A good content A.L.S. of Captain Frank M. IMBODEN, the brother of Confederate General John D. Imboden, 8 x 9.5″, Johnson’s Island, Ohio, May 18, 1865, as a prisoner of war, to his sister on his prospect for release in light of the end of hostilities. In part: “…I hardly think soon, as no policy has yet been declared towards us…Prisoner discipline is rather as right than formerly & we are enjoying as much comfort as we could have…” Loss at left affects text; foxing and folds. Offered together with an A.L.S. by C. F Henning, 3pp. 5 x 8.25″, Richmond, November 29, 1864 to John D. Imboden discussing the possibility of obtaining an exchange for his imprisoned brother. Creases, ink a bit light, else very good. Two pieces. (Est. $100-200)
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An extremely rare war-date ALS.
410. JACKSON, Thomas J. “Stonewall”. (1824-63) Confederate lieutenant general who gained his nickname from his stand at Bull Run. Also served as Lee’s right hand in the Seven Days. Killed at Chancellorsville where he was accidentally shot by Confederate pickets while riding between lines. Rare war date Autograph Letter Signed, November 7, 1862, to Major General D. H. Hill. A fine military letter: “Genl. Yr. dispatch of today 5 P.M. is just at hand. Please ride over to my Hd. qrs. in the morning if convenient as I feel much concerned about comfort of the men. I have no objection to the detail named. Most Respectfully T.J. Jackson Maj Genl” From the famed, early “dean” of manuscript dealers Walter Benjamin, this 8 x 2 3/4″ letter appears slightly trimmed at the bottom margin, but by the way Jackson crammed the last lines to fit the sheet, this is obviously the original size. Signed just before Jackson was appointed a Lt. General. A fine and quite rare war letter.
(Est. $6,000-8,000)
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411. JONES, George W. (1804-96) Jones served as a drummer boy in the War of 1812, secured the organization of the Wisconsin and Iowa territories and served as a Representative and Senator from Iowa. A Southern sympathizer, he was appointed U.S. minister to New Granada by James Buchanan, but was recalled by the Lincoln administration and then confined as a suspected secessionist in Fort Lafayette, New York. Signed card: “Geo. W. Jones, Iowa” , accompanied by note, written for him by his daughter and undated, reading: “Dear Sir, Owing to greatly impaired sight, I am unable to write in a straight line, & I hope you will excuse the appearance…” Scarce, quite fine. (Est. $100-150)
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Autobiographical content … and his being awarded the Medal of Honor!

412. KING, Horatio. (1837-1918) ALS, January 18, 1913, to a young relative, on letterhead reading “Horatio C. King, Temple Bar, 44 Court Street, Brooklyn, N.Y. City.” King studied law with Edwin Stanton for two years before the war. He then served in the Army of the Potomac, and was later Chief Quartermaster of the First Cavalry, Army of the Shenandoah. He took part in five battles and was promoted for gallantry at the Battle of Five Forks. After the War, he practiced law in New York and was appointed Judge Advocate General in the National Guard. In 1897, King was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his service with the cavalry near Dinwiddie Courthouse, VA., on March 31, 1865. King writes, in part: “My dear young friend: I was not a `great-General’ but a modest major who was brevetted colonel and received the Congressional Medal of Honor. My service for two years was with the Army of the Potomac and one with the Army of the Shenandoah Valley… I am addressed as General having been Judge Advocate General of New York.” A fine example with great content. (Est. $75-100)
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Stunning war-date Robert E. Lee letter to Wade Hampton. Written after Jeb Stuart’s death and Hampton’s brilliant victory at Trevilian Station, when Lee promoted Hampton to be in charge of the cavalry, August of 1864.
413. LEE, Robert E. (1807-70) Lee hailed from one of the most distinguished families in Virginia. His father, “Light-Horse Harry,” was a famous Revolutionary War officer, and his wife Mary Custis descended from Martha Washington. He graduated second in his class from West Point in 1829, and then worked in the engineering department. Fighting with distinction in the Mexican War, in 1859 he put down John Brown’s raid on Harper’s Ferry. After Virginia left the Union, he cast his lot with his native state and led the Army of Northern Virginia to many victories, including Second Manassas, Fredericksburg, and Chancellorsville. His ill-advised attack on the center of the Union line at Gettysburg stopped his invasion of the North. He finally surrendered to Grant at Appomattox on April 9, 1865, and was paroled. Lee became president of Washington College [now Washington & Lee University], which is where he died and is buried. A remarkkable letter: “Headq’r. Aug. 12 1864 Gen, Your note of this morning with reference to the assignment of certain members of your present staff to you for duty in the staff of the Cavalry Corps has been received. It will give me pleasure to gratify your wishes in the matter so far as I can do so consistently with the existing orders & regulations. It will be necessary to make application for the transfer of such as you desire so that the application in each case may be acted on & the order issued at the A & GGO Richmond. I am very respectfully, Your Ob’t Serv’t“. The letter is signed with the typical, light Confederate gray ink “R. E. Lee, Gen’l” underneath a thumbprint, undoubtedly that of Lee himself. The 1864 battle of Trevilian Station was the Civil War’s truly decisive cavalry fight, and the thrashing that Hampton gave Sheridan quite possibly extended the war another six months. After several days’ fighting, Hampton gave Sheridan a check at Trevillian’s Station which broke up a plan of campaign that included a junction with Hunter and the capture of Lynchburg. In twenty-three days Hampton captured over 3,000 prisoners and much materiel of war, with a loss of 719 men. He was made commander of Lee’s cavalry in August, with the rank of lieutenant-general, and in September struck the rear of the federal army at City Point, bringing away 400 prisoners and 2,486 beeves. Soon afterward, in another action, he captured 500 prisoners. In one of these attacks he lost his son in battle. Beautifully housed in a custom frame, with a portrait and plaque. (Est. $10,000-12,000)
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414. LOGAN, John Alexander. “Black Jack.” (1826-86) Vice Presidential running mate with James G. Blaine 1884, Illinois Senator, a distinguished Union officer who conceived the idea for Memorial Day observances which he inaugurated on May 30, 1868. After Vicksburg he commanded the Army of Tennessee, but was relieved by Gen. Sherman for his political interests and contempt for logistics. ALS, Washington, D.C., April 29, 1870, on “House of Representatives. Forty-first Congress U.S.” letterhead, to J.A.J. Creswell, recommending an appointment for a constituent. A fine example. (Est. $50-80)
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415. LOGAN, Thomas M. (1840-1914) Confederate cavalryman who saw action from First Bull Run through the Richmond-Petersburg campaign where he was wounded. T.L.S. 8 x 6.25″, Richmond, January 25, 1890 to H. M. Cist of Cincinnati informing him that he “will be pleased to received copies of the letter to which you refer on the battles of Chickamauga and Chattanooga if you will mail tem to me…” With two corrections in his hand. Fine. (Est. $150-200)
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James Longstreet explains his actions at the
Battle of Missionary Ridge to his uncle: “the armies seem to be quietly watching each other.” A fabulous, war-date letter.
416. LONGSTREET, James. (1821-1904) Confederate major general who commanded Lee’s right wing at Sharpsburg, and the left flank at Chickamauga. Accused of delaying his attack at Gettysburg, leading to Confederate defeat. Rare and very fine content war-date ALS “J. Longstreet“, 4pp., May 2, 1864, from Hd.Qrs. Near Gordonsville, VA., written to his uncle, Dr. A. B. Longstreet of Columbus, GA. He writes: “My Dear Uncle, Your letter of the 11th ult. is just received. There can be no impropriety in my endorsing favorably your friends, particularly if they have served with me. My desire was to advise you that nothing would be given to me upon requests etc. A favorable endorsement by me would not, probably, prejudice ones claims, unless it appeared that I was myself interested. So you may send any applications on the part of friends for the advancement of deserving individuals, but the communications must be made by the friends of the individuals and sent to me for endorsement. In that way I will only appear in my official capacity, and not as an interested party, which I really am not. You ask me whether the move into East [Te]ennessee was made at my suggestion. It was [not] nor was it a move that would ever have entered my mind as a practicable one, if I had not heard through some of the Staff Officers of Gen. Bragg that he intended to make such a move. Upon hearing this rumor I set to work to study some means by which the move could be made with safety – And when called into council upon the matter, suggested that it might be made by concentrating the Army in a strong position behind Chickamauga and then detaching a column of twenty thousand men against Burnside in E.T. so as to make the move strong enough and rapid enough to destroy Burnside before the enemy could advance in such condition as to injure our force in Ga. I opposed the move as Gen. Bragg proposed it and as he attempted to execute it, upon the grounds that his line would be too long and too weak to be held around the enemy concentrated in his midst. That the enemy’s force could be concentrated at Chattanooga and moved against any point of his line in twenty minutes, and that when he did move his (Bragg’s) long and weak line must be broken, and I opposed the move into E.T. as too weak to accomplish the results hoped for. That the probabilities were that the reduction in his force would be so great that he could not hold his lines – In short I told him that the whole matter, if the move was made as it was made, would result just as it did result: In his defeat and my failure – Before leaving Chattanooga I wrote to Gen. Buckner, expressing this opinion. He happened to keep my letter, and after the battle of Mission Ridge he sent the letter back to me, as so remarkably true in my predictions as to be well worthy of preservation. I sent it to Louise to keep for me. If you wish it you are welcome to it and she will send it to you if you will mention it when next you write her. The Armies here seem to be quietly [lo]oking at each other. Neither quite [rea]dy to move I suppose. I don’t know yet that we have adopted any plan or policy, except it be to wait till the enemy is entirely ready. Our troops are in fine condition and full of confidence – I sincerely hope that we may be able to destroy Grant as readily as we have the other Yankee Generals. We have never met one who has been able to stand against us yet. Give much love to Aunt and Cousins when you see them or write them. Your very affectionate Nephew, J. Longstreet.” Loss to bottom left corner, small holes near the bottom, minor loss along the fold. A fascinating account of Confederate plans.
(Est. $6,000-8,000)
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417. MAHONE, William. (1826-95) Lt. Col. and Colonel of the 6th VA Infantry Regiment; promoted to Brig. General. During the Peninsular Campaign led his brigade at Seven Pines and Malvern Hill. Also fought at 2nd Manassas, Fredericksburg, Chancellorsville, Gettysburg, the Wilderness, and Spotsylvania; promoted to Major General on July 30, 1864 for his performance at the Battle of the Crater. After the war, he returned to engineering and continued to be instrumental in developing railwaya in Virginia; U.S. Senator, 1881-7. Signed Document, an Atlantic, Mississippi & Ohio Railroad Co. stock certificate, April 5, 1872 issued to J. T. Spencer for 24 shares. A bold Mahone signature. (Est. $400-600)
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The first Confederate killed in action.
418. MARR, John Quincy. (d. 1861) The first Confederate soldier (and officer) to be killed in action during the Civil War. A graduate and former faculty member of the Virginia Military Institute, Marr had been sent to the field with the Warrenton Rifles, which he had raised after John Brown’s raid. Col. Richard S. Ewell stationed Marr’s company at the Fairfax Courthouse, and on June 1, 1861, Company B, 2nd U.S. Cavalry passed through the town, firing a few random shots. After a defense was prepared and the Union forces driven off, it was noticed that Marr was missing. He was later found dead from a wound in the chest. Excessively rare manuscript D.S. “John Q. Marr“, 1p. oblong 8vo., [n.p.], Feb. 4, 1859, a promissory note in which Marr and another gentleman promise to repay the sum of $3,000 to an estate. A 1″ x 1” blank area at lower-left lacking, cross-writing affects one letter in signature, else very good (Est. $1,000-1,200)
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“Little Mac” needs the best cloth
for his new uniform…
and more room in the armpits!

419. McCLELLAN, George Brinton. (1826-85) Democratic candidate for President against Lincoln 1864, Commander of the Army of the Potomac, made General-in-Chief following Winfield Scott. Superseded by General Burnside in November,1862. Governor of New Jersey. ALS, 2pp. with integral address leaf, West Point, NY, April 5th, 1850, to John Earle of Boston. He writes: “John Earle Jr. Esq. Sir, Will you please make for me, & send to this place, one uniform frock coat, with engr. buttons, & straps of the new pattern indicating the lineal rank of a 2nd Lt. & the first grade of a Captain. I presume you have the pattern by this time. The last coat you made for me was of poor cloth & was entirely too small for me – be kind enough to make this one very loose in the neck, chest & arms, particularly in the armpits, you cannot make it much too large in the last place. I wrote to you some time since in relation to an account against one G. C. McClelland sent to me, more than once, by your agent Mr. Selding; as my own account is now paid in full to this date, by a check I sent to your address some two days since, you will greatly oblige me if you will give such directions that the mistake of sending the above mentioned individual’s bill to me may not be repeated. Please make the shoulder strap to tie on, as directed in the order for the new uniform. The last coat you made for me commenced wearing white & tearing very soon after I received it; if better cloth cannot be provided for the usual price, I would prefer paying more for a good article. Your obdt. servant Geo. B. McClellan.” A fine example in pristine condition. (Est. $400-600)
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420.This lot has it all! So here’s how the story goes: General A.P. Hill, spurned by the lovely Miss Mary Ellen “Nelly” Marcy, carried his anger over her marrying his old West Point roommate (and commander of the Army of the Potomac!), George B. McClellan, to the battlefields of the Civil War! This incredible 7 x 8″ two-sided scrapbook album page includes wonderful mementos from McClellan’s 1860 wedding in NYC. It includes G.B. McClellan’s and Miss Marcy’s personal calling cards, six gorgeous photographic portraits of Miss Marcy, a church invitation card, newspaper clipping from the event with list of attendees (including Lt. Gen. Scott, Ex-Governor Seymour, Col. Joe Johnston & Major A.P. Hill himself! A clipping details McClellan’s immediately previous duty in Russia; another clipping is about then General McClellan’s nephew, Young English, fighting for the South, who “…seems to desire nothing so much as to meet in hostile combat his distinguished kinsman.” The calling card of Miss Lilah Worthington is also included (possibly the owner of the scrapbook); she apparently appears in one of the photographs with Miss Marcy. A fun, quite interesting record… and great story of romance, heartache, and battle! (Est. $400-600)
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421. McDOWELL, Irwin. (1818-85) The first Union commander, in May 1861, appointed brigadier general, though he had never commanded men in battle. He was humiliated by Beauregard at First Manassas and was replaced by McClellan. He was assigned a corps of the Army of the Potomac, but his shortcomings worked against him, and he was sent west to command the Department of the Pacific. Routed at Bull Run, he was later exonerated before a board of inquiry in relation to the second battle. A set of four Documents Signed, original printed General Orders dating between August 22, 1850 and December 5, 1855, some one and others two pages, measuring 4.5 x 6.5″, each signed by McDowell during his tenure as Assistant Adjutant General. Orders include a fine content set of orders from General Scott, 2p., New York, March 28, 1855 concerning operations “to be undertaken against the hostile Sioux, and for the purpose of protecting from Indian hostilities the frontiers of Kansas and Nebraska, and the emigrant routes leading from the Missouri river to the West…” Other orders regarding personal armament for artillery troops, recommendations for rifle practice, and an order to the 9th regiment to proceed, “via Panama, to San Francisco, California…” Light vertical creases, pin holes at left margins, otherwise quite bright and clean. Four (4) pieces in total. (Est. $200-300)
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422.MCDOWELL, Irvin. (1818-85) ALS, 2pp., November 7, 1871, Headquarters Dept. of the East letterhead, to Genl. Alpheus S. Williams declining an invitation from the “Committee of the Society of the Army of the Cumberland” to their Fifth Reunion: “obliged to deny myself this pleasure…your Society is connected in my mind with one of my oldest and best friends your… Commander Genl. Geo H Thomas…” Mounting traces at margin of verso (no affect),
otherwise a lovely example.
(Est. $80-120)
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“Only an Irishman…
can appreciate and understand Paddy.”
423. McQUADE, James. (1829-84) Brevet Brigadier General in the 14th New York Infantry. Interesting political content A.L.S. 2pp. 5 x 8″, Utica, N.Y., July 15, 1872 to New York governor John T. Hoffman discussing his candidacy and the Irish vote and the need for him to not run for re-election. He writes: “I don’t find that the well-informed people have an idea that you would lose much of the Irishman, or one with Irish blood in his veins, can appreciate and understand Paddy. Those who think you will be hurt materially by the Irish vote are of two classes — the people who know nothing about it, and those who want somebody else nominated. While I have no doubt you would lose some Irish votes I am sure that they would be more than compensated by the scattering Republican vote you would receive from those who approve [of] your administration. My father, who is a pretty shrewd observer of political affairs, and conversant with the currents of public opinion, thinks that you would not lose a great many Irish votes, and that if you did you would ‘have plenty without them.’ Kernan[?] proposes not to be a candidate, but I am not certain that he is sincere. You can’t always tell about Kernan. His name it is Frank, but the name doesn’t strike in to any extent. His son, with whom I talked yesterday, doesn’t know anything about it. Spriggs, however, who is a pretty good indicator of the Kernan mind, says that he ‘thinks, on the whole Frank is the best man to take Hoffman’s place. Hoffman, had better announce that he is not a candidate and relieve the matter of all complication…’ I suppose that it may seem to some of these gentleman that, after all this blathering about the 12 of July, if you should decline to become a candidate it wouldn’t do to put a Catholic, or Irish blood, in your place…” Hoffman, by then ruined politically by his connections to the Tweed Ring, did not stand for re-election. Neatly laid into a lager sheet, usual folds, othewise fine. (Est. $100-300)
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424. MEADE, George G. (1815-72) Union major general who commanded brilliantly at Gettysburg, leading to a Union victory and the turning point of the Civil War. A fine S.P. “Geo. G. Meade“, a carte-de-visite photograph bearing a sepia 3/4 length image of Meade in uniform. Boldly signed on mount with a “F. Gutekunst, Philadelphia” backstamp with a tax stamp dated Nov 23, 1864. This photograph was likely taken in the Autumn of 1864 when Meade took a short leave of absence to visit his home. Photograph slightly buckled from mount at top and bottom due to a lack of adhesive, small nick along bottom portion of photo, otherwise very good condition. (Est. $1,500-1,800)
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425. MORRIS, William H. (1827-1900) Union general on reserve at Gettysburg, wounded at Spotsylvania. A.L.S. 5 x 8″, Fordham, [NY], April 29, 1898 on personal matters. Laid into a larger sheet, boldly penned, an excellent example. (Est. $50-75)
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426. NICHOLLS, Francis Reddin Tillou. (1834-1912) Confederate brigadier-general, raised the Phoenix guards, served at First Bull Run, lost an arm at Winchester, later lost a foot at Chancellorsville. Partly-printed endorsement as Governor of Louisiana on the verso of a partly-printed treasury bond for $100, 1877. Usual folds, otherwise very good. (Est. $60-80)
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The only signed portrait of General John Strong Platner extant.
427. PLATNER, John Strong. (1837-68) Carte photograph from Plumb Gallery in Washington, D.C., inscribed “Fraternally yours, J.S. Platner, Maj. 33rd NYV.” Platner enlisted May 1, 1861 at the age of 24 from his home at Geneva, NY as a Captain, Platner was commissioned into “H” Co. NY 33rd Infantry. In 1863 he was commissioned into Field & Staff NY 1st Vet Cavalry. His promotions included: Major 1/24/1862; Lt Col 9/18/1863 (as of 1st NY Veteran Cavalry); Colonel 12/13/1864; Brig-Gen 3/13/1865 by Brevet. Helping command troops with the NY 33rd, the “Ontario Regiment,” Platner and his men built up Forts Ethan Allen and Marcy. The 3d brigade, under command of Gen. Davidson, then moved to Manassas; then embarked for the Peninsula. In the siege of Yorktown the regiment was active. It encountered the enemy at Lee’s Mill; participated in the battles of Williamsburg, Mechanicsville, and the Seven Days’ fighting from Gaines’ Mill to Malvern Hill; encamped at Harrison’s Landing. They took part in the Maryland campaign; at Antietam the regiment displayed exceptional gallantry. They saw action throughout Maryland, joined the “Mud March” in 1863, and returned to winter at White Oak Church. In the battle of Chancellorsville, the regiment belonged to the light brigade and suffered great losses. Redeployed as a Lt. Col. with the NY 1st Cavalry, Platner served in the Dept. of Washington. Their first battle occurred at Upperville, in Feb., 1864. Continuous hard service followed, the regiment being actively engaged at Woodstock, Newtown, New Market, and numerous other locales. Under command of Col. Platner, the regiment mustered out at Camp Piatt, W. Va., July 20, 1865. An exceptional piece from a man who saw a great deal of combat. (Est. $300-500)
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428. PORTER, Fitz John. (1822-1901) Union Major General, led 5th Corps; later court-martialed for failure to follow orders at 2nd Battle of Bull Run. ALS, April 20 (1893), New York, to his old comrade Col. Nathan Appleton. In part, “As a substitute for our faithful and loved comrade Gen. Locke, I have designated another good comrade – Col. A M Clark as Acting Secretary and Treasurer of the 5th Corps Society… asked him to attend to… our business operations at Boston for our next meeting…” Docketed at corner “Meeting of the Society of the Army of the Potomac, Boston, June 27-28, 1893.” Minor mounting traces on verso, otherwise very good. Appleton (1843-1906) fought with the 5th and, at the time this letter was received from his old commander, ran Boston’s G.A.R. Post #113. (Est. $100-150)
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429. PRYOR, Roger. Served with Robert E. Lee at Harpers Ferry. LS, 3 West 69th [NY], 2pp., August 31,1915. An interesting letter written for Pryor then signed by him about his role at Harpers Ferry. In full: “My Dear Sir, My father, Judge Pryor, not being well enough to write, I have acted as his amannensis [sic], furnishing at his dictation the facts you ask. It has given him pleasure to comply with your request. Yours sincerely, M.G.P. Rice [Pryor’s daughter]. The letter signed by Pryor states: “General Robert E. Lee commanded the forces opposed to John Brown in 1859. Serving under him as a volunteer I first met him at Harpers Ferry Virginia upon that occasion. I was during the Civil War Colonel of the Third Virginia Regiment, and was promoted to Brigadier General in 1863…” A very nice association item from an eyewitness. (Est. $200-300)
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The old general comments on political affairs related to the upcoming presidential election: “…Democrats do insist so much on the adoption of the issue of one seven year term for the Presidency…“
430. ROSECRANS, William S. (1819-98) Union Major General; Chief of the Army of the Cumberland at Stones River, Tullahoma & Chickamauga. ALS, signed “W.S. Rosecrans“, 4 separate pages, July 11, 1880, 4to, San Francisco, to General Winfield Scott Hancock (1824-86), with excellent political content. In small part: “…of those elected ardent minds which can never be content to see the popular government running in the grooves of hopeless and helpless machines and mismanagement…Before Hayes was thought of for the Presidency I spent three hours in persuading him that rotation in office for spoils was the evil which convenes over all others… Democrats do insist so much on the adoption of the issue of one seven year term for the Presidency…” Much more. Written in purple fountain ink, which has “feathered” in places throughout the letter and signature, but all writing is still legible. Uneven toning to first page else quite a fine example. (Est. $100-200)
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431. SHALER, Alexander. (1827-1911) Union brigadier general fought in every important battle with the Army of the Potomac including Sharpsburg, Malvern Hill and Gettysburg. During 1863, he was in charge of the Confederate prison on Johnson’s Island, but returned for the battle of the Wilderness where he was captured. He was likely the only officer who commanded a Union stockade for Confederate prisoners who later became a prisoner himself. He was exchanged and later served in Arkansas. ALS, October 17, 1870, “Head Quarters 1st Division,” to Col. Poore, in part: “Unfortunately, my engagements were so numerous during the time you were in the city that I barely succeeded in finding time to meet the Mayor at the St. Nicholas to review you as you passed on your way to the boat..” Neatly tipped to larger sheet, quite fine. (Est. $80-120)
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Sheridan instructs General Hancock to send President Arthur to New Jersey!
(Not a fate we would wish on many!)

432. SHERIDAN, Philip H. (1831-88) Union Major General; commanded at Chickamauga, Chattanooga; led Army of the Shenandoah; cut off the final Confederate retreat at Appomattox. A famous Indian fighter, Sheridan’s fighting prowess was evident throughout the war: from Booneville to the elimination of J.E.B. Stuart at Yellow Tavern. ALS “P H Sheridan,” 3pp., August 21, 1884, Headquarters Army of the U.S. letterhead, Washington, to Gen Winfield Scott Hancock (1824-86). In part: “I want to inspect the public buildings at Fort Hamilton on Monday morning & would like to have Mr. Chester A. Arthur sent to the Jersey City depot for the 6:30 train…” Some light soiling, vertical fold, otherwise very good. At this time, Sheridan was commander-in-chief of the Army and, of course, reported directly to Chester A. Arthur, President of the U.S. Fun association! (Est. $200-300)
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433. SHERIDAN, Philip. (1831-88) Union major general of cavalry and famous Indian fighter. Sheridan’s fighting prowess was evident throughout the war, from Booneville to Chickamauga and the elimination of J.E.B. Stuart at Yellow Tavern. Pristine Signed Calling Card. A lovely specimen. (Est. $150-200)
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Sherman sends a terse war-dated letter to future General John Starkweather. This comes only five days after he was superseded in the Dept. of the Ohio by Buell, under a cloud of insanity.
434. SHERMAN, William T. (1820-91) Union major general declared by the press to be “insane,” he led his army in their March to the Sea, taking Atlanta, Savannah and Columbia along the way. War-date ALS, November 14, 1861, in full: “Col. John C. Starkweather Sir, I authorize you to recruit your regiment up to the standard provided you enlist onlyl persons who have already served and that they should come embodied in not less than fifty men. W. T. Sherman Brig. Gen. Comd.” The new Department of the Ohio, which replaced those of Ohio and the Cumberland, consisted of Ohio, Indiana, Michigan and Tennessee, and Kentucky east of the Cumberland River. Command was given to Brig. Gen. Don Carlos Buell, who superseded Sherman. The job had proved too great a nervous strain for Sherman, who departed under a cloud with even his sanity questioned. Buell was thought to be a stalwart, firm and able soldier. A great example. (Est. $2,500-3,000)
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Sherman’s “large collection of photographs…”
435. SHERMAN, William Tecumseh. ALS, 3pp., April 4, 1890, New York. In part: “Dear Hammond, Your letter was received some days ago. And I have searched in my large collection of photographs for the one you speak of, is of my personal and official staff about the time of Shiloh and Vicksburg. Therefore I will be obliged for one of your spare copies…You have always inclined to underestimate your strength in evidence of which you have outlasted hundreds and thousands of your comrades who were rugged, strong and confident of long life. I surely think the same of myself… I [am] living while Grant, Sheridan, Thomas, Logan and hundreds of others physically stronger than me… are dead. The simple fact that you have earned since the war a fair competency for your wife and children will surely add to your days unless you hasten the end by unnecessary worry and fret. I am quite well only overtaxed by social demands on my time. Still it is better to wear out than to rush out…” Much more. Together with the photograph detailed in the letter, an Imperial Card by Marceau Bellsmith of Cincinnati. Water stain to the right of Sherman, somewhat light. A fine letter. (Est. $1,500-1,800)
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Duelist with Lincoln… and General.
436. SHIELDS, James. (1806-79) Challenged Lincoln to a duel in retaliation for Lincoln’s “Rebecca” letter in which he described Shields as “a conceity dunce.” Another “Rebecca” letter, written by Mary Todd and Julia Jayne, drove Shields to seek restoration to his honor. Lincoln accepted the challenge but chose, instead of pistols, to fight with “Cavalry broad swords of the largest size.” Fortunately, seconds finessed an understanding and the fight was called off. Lincoln appointed Shields a brigadier general during the War. Autograph Letter Signed, Washington, February 14, 1859, to Gustavus Henderson of Baltimore. “Dear Sir, I take great pleasure in complying with your flattering request to send you my autograph to be placed amongst names that have shed so much lustre on their country. My fear is that my poor name will be out of place in such a brilliant collection.” Mounting remnants on verso slightly bleed through to front, otherwise very fine.
(Est. $200-300)
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437. SLIDELL, John. (1793-1871) U.S. Senator from Louisiana, Slidell was appointed Ambassador to France by the Confederacy and was subsequently captured by the Union aboard the British steamer Trent with James Mason, Minister to England (known as the “Trent Affair”). Questionable under international law, the capture almost resulted in war between England and the U.S. ALS, spindle hole cancellation at center. He writes in the third person, in part: “Mr. Slidell wished first volume of Cicero…also the volume containing the letter to Atticus…” Light bleed, signature quite bold, fine. (Est. $80-120)
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438. [GROUP] A rare collection of four war-date D.S. “G. W. Smith” adding rank as major general, being official military telegrams addressed to Generals Robert E. Lee, Samuel French, and W. H. C. Whiting. These documents come directly from Smith’s retained copy ledger and are all inscribed on one larger folio sheet, Richmond, Va. Dec 13, 1862. Each telegram is actually signed by Smith making its transmission official. The content varies, including troop movements in the Carolinas, an attack at Kingston, N. C., and a possible assault to Petersburg, VA. A rare look, behind the scenes, at routine Confederate military operations. Right hand margin on the verso is closely cut, negligibly affecting the content, else very good. Interesting content, fine documents. (Est. $300-500)
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JEB Stuart writes to a soldier’s
mother… getting her son transferred to obtain proper medical training.
A rare, war-date letter.

439. STUART, James E.B. (1833-64) Confederate major general of cavalry, led a daring reconnaissance on McClellan’s forces, riding around the entire army. Later turned up late at Gettysburg leaving Lee “blind.” He was mortally wounded at Yellow Tavern. Rare war-date Autograph Letter Signed, 2pp., March 2, 1863, on stationery with embossed shield bearing the inscription “R&H.” The letter, 5 x 8″, is written from “Hd Qrs Cav Div: A of N. VA.” to the mother of one of his soldiers seeking to have her son sent to Hanover, VA for medical training. “My Dear Madam, Your favor of Friday 24th was duly recd. and I have given its subject prompt attention, but no records can be found of any such case having been submitted here. It must have miscarried. My division surgeon to whom I showed your letter says he will make inquiry about your son and if worthy will have him detailed for hospital duty at the Coleman Institute in Hanover, where his opportunities for study will be better & his expenses less than at Richmond. In the abstract, I am opposed to such details, but there are special cases which justify it. I have but one motive in these matters and that is duty to our country, which I know you will recognize as paramount to everything else. Most Respectfully & Truly Yours J.E.B. Stuart Major Genl.” An elegant letter with fabulous content. (Est. $6,000-8,000)
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The future “Rock of Chickamagua” goes public to complain about a promotion!
440. THOMAS, George H. (1816-70) Union major general who commanded forces at Chickamauga, Shiloh, Atlanta and Franklin. A unique piece of history: a four-page circular, “Letter. Washington City, June 10, 1860,” signed on last page “G. H. Thomas. A. Q. M. Gen.; U.S.A.” In this letter, Thomas publicizes his concern over the possible loss of a promotion: “I now ask to be promoted to that rank, made vacant by the death of my late friend and chief, General Jesup. That I have a right to ask for it will be seen by the foregoing statement. I consider it my legal right; yet, should I be seen in error on this point, I claim it as having earned it by my service and rank in the army.” Some folds, but generally in very fine condition with a crisp and bold signature. Possibly a unique specimen as we can source no other example – quite an important discovery! (Est. $600-800)
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441. (THOMAS, George H.) 3.5 x 2.5″ card for the official funeral services honoring the “Rock of Chickamagua.” A rare, interesting piece of ephemera. (Est. $100-200)
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442. TRACY, Edward Dorr. (1833-63) Confederate brigadier general who fought at First Bull Run and later served in Wheeler’s 19th Alabama. Tracy served in Eastern Tennessee prior to participating in the Vicksburg campaign, where he was mortally wounded at Port Gibson. His scarce signature “Edward D. Tracy” on closely cut slip removed from an envelope. Cancellation affects “Tracy.” Very light soiling, else very good condition. (Est. $150-300)
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443. VEATCH, James C. (1819-1895), Union Brig. Gen. of Vols.; fought at Shiloh and Mobile; led a division in the deep south; early investigator of Indiana Lincoln lore. Handsome document, signed and partially filled out by Veatch, New Albany, Ind., 1877. A $25 U.S. tax stamp for a retail liquor dealer; on pale yellow paper with nice vignette of Bacchus, still and wine jug at top; Internal Revenue seal and underprinted year date in red. Unissued; two small hole cancels clear of writing; very fine. Veatch published The Herald newspaper at Rockport, Ind., near Lincoln’s boyhood home, and likely first met him in 1844 during his sole return visit, as a campaigner for Henry Clay. In 1861 Veatch led the committee which welcomed Lincoln’s inaugural train to Indiana and had a long reminiscent talk with him. When the neglected grave of Lincoln’s mother Nancy was finally marked in 1879, Veatch led a drive to put an iron fence around the site and personally helped install it. Colorful and great for display. (Est. $60-80)
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A rare, Confederate Cavalry Corps Broadside.
444. [WHEELER, Joseph.] West Point trained Wheeler (Fighting Joe) started the war as a 2nd Lieutenant and rose to Major General in only 21 months at the age of 26. He was a professional and disciple of the Academy’s scientific theory of war that eschewed romanticism and taught mastering the complexities of the battlefield. He fought at Shiloh as Colonel of the 19th AL and soon lead the cavalry corps of the Army of Tennessee. “Fighting Joe” commanded the cavalry corps until near the end of the war when he was superseded by Wade Hampton. Fascinating 3 1/2 x 10 1/2″ printed, circular-broadside, from Maj. Gen. Joseph Wheeler and signed in type by his adjutant, Maj. D.G. Reed, datelined at “Head Quarters Wheeler’s Cavalry Corps, June 3rd, 1863. General Orders No. 7.” The General Order reminds cavalry officers that “The commanding General of this Army relies solely upon information received from Cavalry, to make his dispositions and inaccuracies in their reports may entail great disasters.” The orders also discuss what is expected of cavalry in the field noting “Calvary Officers and Soldiers must always remember that they are the eyes and ears of the General commanding…” These orders were circulated in the lead-up to the Tullahoma (Middle Tennessee) Campaign intended to prevent Confederate reinforcements from aiding besieged Vicksburg. (Est. $800-1,000)
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445. WICKHAM, William C. (1820-88) Confederate cavalryman present First Bull Run, wounded at Williamsburg. Also present at Second Bull Run, Antietam, Chancellorsville, and Fredericksburg. Partly-printed D.S., 3.75 x 2.25″, 1877, a free pass to ride on the Chesapeake & Ohio Railroad valid through January 1, 1878. Fine and extremely rare. (Est. $200-300)
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446. WRIGHT, Horatio G. (1820-99). Union Maj. Gen. who led fighting at Gettysburg, Spotsylvania (where wounded) and Appomattox. After the war, he was Engineer of the Army and was buried directly in front of the Lee home at Arlington – which he helped seize early in the war. ALS, 3pp., Washington, May 11, 1880, “Office of the Chief of Engineers, U.S. Army,” to T. A. Actin on an invitation to the Union League Club; Wright declines: “It would afford me much pleasure to meet on the occasion referred to the gentlemen of the club who acted so important a part in sustaining the effects of the nation to put down the Rebellion, but unfortunately my duties are such as to preclude my being present at the time fixed for the dinner…” Excellent. (Est. $75-100)
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An interesting Union Naval document.
The final request before the Tecumseh sank to the bottom of Mobile Bay in the engagement that inspired the directive
“Damn the torpedoes!”

447. Offered is one of the last documents signed by Captain T.A.M. Craven before he died with most of his crew of 141 men when the USS Tecumseh broke from formation to attack the Confederate ironclad ram Tennessee, was hit by a torpedo and capsized… quickly plunging bow first to the bottom of Mobile Bay. This historic manuscript is one page, 8 x12″, written and signed by John Faron, Chief Engineer of the Tecumseh, July 29, 1864, from Pensacola. The missive is a formal request for iron spikes and machinists to execute repairs to deck plates of the Union Ironclad, with approval signatures of both Tunis A.M. Craven, Captain of the ship and Commodore William W. Smith, in command of the Navy Yard at Pensacola. On the verso is a docket by J.W. Whittaker, Chief Engineer at the Navy Yard, certifying the signatures and stating, “the last requistion signed by Chief Engineer Faron before the Tecumseh was blown up Aug. 5/64 Mobile Bay.” These repairs were made just seven days before this famous Civil War Naval encounter at Mobile Bay, when Union battle plans went awry. Com. Farragut, directing the engagement, nonetheless felt he still had the initiative and gave his famous order to “Damn the torpedoes!” The rest of the fleet charged forward. This historic Naval item comes with a copy of the magazine Blue & Gray, June 12, 2002 relating “The Battle of Mobile Bay.” Cleanly separated at integral folds but easily repaired, a remarkable piece of history! (Est. $400-600)
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Rare Civil War Signature from the
Baltimore Riots.
448. Offered is a bold signature of George (Marshal) Kane penned on an official check from the Comptroller of Baltimore City. The blue check is dated Dec. 6th 1877. Kane was head of the Police force in Baltimore in April 1861 when the famous “first blood” of the Civil War was shed. The Union 6th Mass. was being sent to Washington via Baltimore when the citizens attacked the Union soldiers resulting in numerous casualties on both sides. This would be known as the Baltimore Riot. Marshal George P. Kane, head of the Baltimore City Police, with about fifty policeman rushed in behind the troops and formed a line to protect them. Ironically Kane was a secessionist. Two of his sons would later join Mosby’s Rangers, and he would eventually be arrested because of his political views. But as a policeman Kane saw it as his duty to protect these troops even though they opposed his own personal beliefs. Later Kane was sent to see the Governor, who was staying at Mayor Brown’s home. Kane informed Governor Hicks that within a few short hours a large body of troops, no doubt aware of the day’s events and inflamed with resentment, would enter Baltimore. The Governor, though he would later deny it, supposedly gave his permission to burn the railroad bridges of the North Central and Philadelphia, Wilmington & Baltimore Railroads, effectively cutting Baltimore off from the North. Kane realized that burning the bridges was not enough to stop Federal troops from passing through the city. If Baltimore was to become the focal point of Federal troops passing through the state to the District of Columbia, then Baltimore needed a strong military presence in the city to keep order and to deter Federal troops from occupying it. To this end Kane contacted several of the militia units scattered throughout the state. One such militia unit, the Frederick Company, was commanded by Captain Bradley T. Johnson, a local lawyer and politician. Johnson had several days before offered his assistance to Kane. Kane wired Johnson: “Streets red with Maryland blood. Send expresses over the mountains of Maryland and Virginia for the riflemen to come without delay.” Within a month of the riots, Johnson and most of his men would be at Harper’s Ferry organizing what became the 1st Maryland Volunteer Infantry, C.S.A. (Est. $200-400)
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For some reason – despite a long life –
a very scarce Maryland CSA autograph.
449. HOWARD, McHenry. (1838-1923) Signed Document, a receipt with bold signature for expenses incurred as an election judge in the Baltimore elections of 1880. The document is dated Nov. 3 1880 and addressed to the Mayor and City Council, 7x 8″. Howard was a Marylander who, at the outbreak of the war, hurried south and joined Johnston’s army at Bull Run. Subsequently he fought through the whole war, serving as a staff officer to Jackson, Stuart and Lee. He was taken by the Federals and held for a time as a POW on Johnson’s Island in Lake Erie. His family has a long famous history in Baltimore, Maryland. A fine Civil War – and political – item. (Est. $200-400)
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Rare and significant Baltimore Riot work…
Signed by the author, that city’s Mayor, who tried to calm events during the first carnage of the war.
450. Offered is a very rare first edition of Baltimore and the 19th of April, 1861, by George William Brown. Published in 1887 in Baltimore by N. Murray, agent for Johns Hopkins University (printer Isaac Friedenwald), the book has been inscribed to “N. Murray with the kind regards of Geo. Wm. Brown Nov. 5 /87.” Brown was the Mayor of Baltimore City during this famous first event of the Civil War. The book relates his personal account of this important historical event. In April 1861 clouds of war hung over the nation. Soon Fort Sumter would be fired on, giving rise to the “official” beginning of the Civil War. Before this first encounter, the real start of the Civil War occurred on April 19, 1861 between Massachusetts Union soldiers and Southern sympathizer civilians in the City of Baltimore. Numerous were killed and injured on both sides. This book apparently was one of the first copies to be printed as it was signed to Murray. The hardback book is in good condition except that the front binding is slightly separated. The front cover has beautiful gold leaf for the title, author etc. The only autographed copy we can source… a seldom offered book. (Est. $600-800)
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451. (Jefferson Davis). A group of four original printed General Orders, each signed in ink by Adjutant General Samuel Cooper, 23pp. total, 4.25 x 6.5″, Washington, dating between November 7, 1853 and August 28, 1854, each bearing messages from then Secretary of War, Jefferson Davis. Subjects range from the organization of the Pay Department to a very involved statement discussing the issue of enlisting aliens and minors into the Army. This was an issue that would figure heavily during the Civil War when recent immigrants (notably the Irish) would make up a significant portion of the ranks of the Union Army. Pin holes at left margins, otherwise mostly bright and clean. Four (4) documents in total, quite fine pre-war military content. (Est. $200-300)
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