1086. SANDBURG, Carl. (1878-1967) American poet, historian, folklorist and journalist. Authored a classic biography of Lincoln, winning one of his three Pulitzer Prizes for his 1940 volume Lincoln: The War Years. Printed Speech Signed. An original copy of Sandburg’s famous tribute to Lincoln – as delivered before Congress, signed by the great author and historian! Believed to be one of just a few copies printed for close friends, this speech, 7pps., entitled “Lincoln, Man of Velvet and Steel,” was delivered on the 150th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth, February 12, 1959, to both Houses of the U.S. Congress. This specific address was met with thunderous applause and was later published in National Geographic. This inscribed copy was sent by Sandburg to his good friend, and the illustrator of many of his works, Hans Troubnick. The inscription reads: “To Taj Troubnick with salutations & in fellowship Carl Sandburg, 1960.” The speech reads in part, “…During the four years he was President he at times, especially in the first three months, took to himself the powers of a dictator; he commanded the most powerful armies till then assembled in modern warfare; he enforced conscription of soldiers for the first time in American history; under imperative necessity he abolished the right of habeas corpus; he directed politically and spiritually the wild, massive, turbulent forces let loose in civil war… In the month the war began he told his secretary, John Hay: `My policy is to have no policy.’ Three years later in a letter to a Kentucky friend made public, he confessed plainly: `I have been controlled by events.’…To his Kentucky friend, Joshua F. Speed, he wrote in 1855: `Our progress in degeneracy appears to me to be pretty rapid. As a Nation we began by declaring that `all men are created equal’ except Negroes. When the know-nothings get control, it will read `All men are created equal except Negroes and foreigners and Catholics.’ When it comes to this, I shall prefer emigrating to some country where they make no pretense of loving liberty…” Light discoloration on first and last pages, else quite fine. A lovely souvenir of Sandburg’s love of Lincoln. (Est. $500-800)
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1087. The original Lincoln collectible! “Commissioners Sale! Of the Abraham Lincoln Birthplace.” This legal notice broadside, 11 x 23″, announces the bankruptcy sale of the farmstead purchased by Lincoln’s father Thomas Lincoln in 1808 site of the cabin where Abraham Lincoln was born. The sale took place on August 28, 1905 on the courthouse steps in Hodgenville, Kentucky. Only three bidders participated, including a whiskey distiller who planned to use the property to advertise “Lincoln Birthplace Whiskey.” The winning bidder was a representative of Collier’s Magazine. The final price was $3,600. A year of fund raising by members of The Lincoln Farm Association (including Samuel Gompers and William Jennings Bryan) was sufficient to restore the cabin to its original site. It is now known as “The Abraham Lincoln Birthplace National Historic Site.” This piece of ephemera is in overall excellent condition with just a couple of typical edge chips. (We sold an example five years ago for $1,320.) A fun item! (Est. $1,000-1,500)
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1088. (Lincoln Birthplace) COLLIER, Robert J. (1876-1918), head of P.F. Collier & Son publishing from 1909; editor and publisher of Collier’s Weekly; created the Lincoln Farm Association which raised the funds to buy Lincoln’s birthplace and build the granite memorial. Typed Letter Signed on letterhead of The Lincoln Farm Association (listing an incredible group of trustees, including Pres. Taft, Horace Porter, Mark Twain, Wm. Jennings Bryan and Sam Gompers!), Dec. 3, 1909, to contributor J.A. Quisenberry, Danville, Ky. Collier complains that a $50,000 maintenance fund “unanimously passed by the Senate” was stymied in the House by “the determined opposition of Speaker Cannon” and deplores the fact that “one man” can “block a measure…so generally approved.” He asks for an extra contribution, pointedly noting that “Speaker Cannon’s action has created the need.” Together with an illustrated report, 4pp., touching on the same subject and describing progress on the Memorial; the cornerstone had been laid the previous Lincoln’s birthday by Teddy Roosevelt (a small picture shows him with the crowd). It also quotes the inspirational inscriptions to be carved on the monument walls. A great ephemera group with fun association. (Est. $100-150)
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A complete set of the fabulous
Centennial books with encased medals…
including one struck in silver!
1089. [Group] The Lincoln Centennial Medal – Presenting the medal of Abraham Lincoln by Jules Edouard Roine…. (G.P. Putnam’s Sons, New York: 1908.) Copyright by Robert Hewitt, offered here are two sets in their original boxes with wraps, one in illustrated blue cloth presenting the large, 62.5mm. medal in bronze, the other in illustrated white and silver cloth with the same medal in silver. The medals are inserted in a cased middle section of the book, both uncirculated but lightly age-toned. The latter example is marked as #37 in a limited silver edition of just 100, this having belonged to the famous Charles Lamb – his pastedown on front board. Also: The Lincoln Tribute Book… Together with A Centenary Medal by Roine. (G.P. Putnam’s Sons, New York: 1909.) This smaller volume, in titled red cloth, owner’s plate on inside cover, includes the 32mm. silver plated bronze medal. A rare opportunity to obtain a complete, representational set. While the silver alone brings $1,000+, to have the two in original presentation boxes together with the smaller specimen should draw interest at…
(Est. $800-1,200)
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1090.The Lincoln Tribute Book… Together with A Centenary Medal by Roine. (G.P. Putnam’s Sons, New York: 1909.) Another example of M-1763 with inserted medal in titled red cloth, owner’s inscription on endpaper, about as clean a copy as can be found. The 32mm. silver plated bronze medal is quite fine, uncirculated. (Est. $100-150)

1091.HUGE meerschaum pipe bowl – a centennial tribute to Lincoln! An incredibly large meerschaum pipe bowl, 4-5/8″ high, 7 3/4″ long, with the bowl 4″ in diameter. The front is carved with a raised wreath around the date “1909” in commemoration of the one-hundredth anniversary of Lincoln’s birth. Undoubtedly unique… and special! (Est. $800-1,000)
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“Ground Zero” for all New York power, politics… ohh… and corruption!
1092. A rare stereoview on flat, orange board simply titled “Tammany Hall, N.Y.” The Tammany Society was founded in New York City in 1789 by William Mooney, a Revolutionary War veteran. It drew its name from a respected Delaware chief, Tammend, who had reportedly befriended William Penn. In 1798, Aaron Burr helped mold the organization into a political force dedicated to anti-Federalist principles. This partisan group was used effectively to support Burr and Thomas Jefferson in the Election of 1800. A watershed event occurred in 1817 when the Irish managed to force their way into membership in Tammany. The practice of exchanging votes for benefits quickly became the organization’s backbone. In 1830, the group’s headquarters were established in Tammany Hall and thereafter the name of the association and the location were synonymous. Tammany Hall elected its first mayor, Fernando Wood, in 1855. New York City would be governed by Tammany forces for the next 70 years with only a few short interruptions. (Their most notable power-broker was William Marcy “Boss” Tweed who ushered in an era of extreme corruption. Tweed was successful with making the organization a statewide force, but was eventually brought down by a reform attorney, Samuel J. Tilden.) Tammany Hall regained its strength in the 1880s and was prominent in the life of the city with figures such as Alfred E. Smith and Jimmy Walker deeply involved in the dealings of the machine. In the 1930s, reform mayor Fiorello la Guardia, backed by Franklin D. Roosevelt, sharply reduced the power and influence of Tammany Hall. It lingered for several decades as a county organization, but was finally ended by another reform mayor, John V. Lindsay, in the 1960s. (Est. $100-150)
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1093. SHERMAN, John. (1823-1900) Ohio Senator best known for the anti-trust act which bears his name. Partly-printed D.S., a check drawn on the First national Bank of Mansfield, Ohio for $20.65 dated June 18, 1869. Check bears a beautifully engraved sharp and crisp portrait of Lincoln at left. Fine condition. A lovely piece with graphic appeal. (Est. $40-60)
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1094. Three (3) National Lincoln Monument printed notices, all are one page. The first, from May or June of 1865, is a folded sheet entitled “National Lincoln Monument. Description of Grounds.” Provides a description of the monument grounds including “The Monument is to be erected in Oak Ridge Cemetery…the Monument will be erected, is nearly in the center of the cemetery and contains six acres…all of which…commands a view of the entire cemetery and can be seen from the city…” Lincoln attended the original dedication of Oak Ridge Cemetery. Very fine. Together with, a notice signed in print by Clinton L. Conkling, Sec’y of the National Lincoln Monument Associations, with the seal of the Association, dated June 1865. It begins: “It is now nearly three months since our whole land was thrown into the deepest mourning for the loss of a beloved and honored Chief Magistrate.” The notice goes on to state “It is not an individual or a State project, but a National one; and being such, we wish every city and hamlet in our broad land to be represented by the contribution of its citizens.” Very good. And in addition, a notice dated June 28, 1865 and signed in print R.J. Oglesby, President of the National Lincoln Monument Association. The notice was printed in response to the “many inquiries… being made as to the design, the probable cost, of the National Monument…” It also settles the matter of Lincoln’s final resting place with “It is deemed proper that the public should be officially appraised that, in accordance with the wishes of Mrs. Lincoln, the National Lincoln Monument Association have definitely decided to erect the National Monument to the memory of Abraham Lincoln…at Oak Ridge, near the city of Springfield, Illinois.” Very good. (Est. $200-400)
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1095.NATIONAL LINCOLN MONUMENT ASSOCIATION. Letterhead (illustrated with the association’s well-known “penny profile” woodcut of Abraham Lincoln), 1 page, 4to, bearing an Autograph Note Signed by J.M. Edmunds to F.E. Spinner, Washington, D.C., 20 April 1869, ordering a payment to the Great Republic newspaper, whose typographically ornate, oblong 8vo billhead is pasted in the center of the sheet. Edmunds and Spinner were, respectively, Secretary and Treasurer of the Association, which led the national campaign to raise funds for Lincoln’s tomb. Edmunds had been Lincoln’s Land Commissioner and Spinner his U.S. Treasurer, known for his fancy signature which appeared on the first “greenbacks” as well as fractional currency. Wrinkled from the affixed billhead; heavy folds, some soiling on verso, which has a date docket in Spinner’s hand. (Est. $50-80)
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1096. [Unpublished Manuscript – Historical Research]
A personal copy of George P. Hambrecht’s manuscript on the “Insurgent Copperhead Attacks on Abraham Lincoln – Extracts from Newspapers.” Compiled by Hambrecht, one of the great Lincoln collectors and bibliophiles of the early part of the century, this piece is dated December 1, 1909 and is not listed as having been published by Monaghan. It includes a presentation inscription “Compliments of G. P. Hambrecht” on the cover. 11 pp., on legal paper, tight folds. Newspaper attacks include “The candidate for President, Abraham Lincoln is an uneducated man – a vulgar village politician, without any experience worth mentioning in the practical duties of statesmanship and only noted for some very unpopular votes which he gave while a member of Congress.” Great content with research from 100 years ago that would be hard to replicate. (Est. $100-300)
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Hand-written notes for a Lincoln
centennial address!
1097. ALS, February 6, 1909, Middletown CT., from Charles Appel to Lt. Governor Frank B. Weeks of Connecticut inviting him to attend the Lincoln Centennial Dinner in Middletown and to speak at the celebration. Written on G.A.R. stationery (using EVERY bit of leverage possible!). Together with Weeks’ manuscript speaking notes for the address in which he speaks of Lincoln’s “heroic life & tragic death.” Frank Bentley Weeks (1854-1935) became the Republican Governor of Connecticut later in 1909. Two holes at top of letter for metal post files, else fine. (Provenance: from the Weeks family estate.) (OPEN)
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[OLDROYD, Osborn Hamilton Ingham. (1842-1930) Born in Ohio (his initials spell the state’s name), served with the 20th Ohio Infantry, saw a great deal of action and was wounded in battle. He is considered the first true “great” Lincoln collector, carefully piecing together a tremendous holding. He lived in Lincoln’s Springfield home in the mid-1880’s up until Robert Todd Lincoln donated the house to the State. Oldroyd then moved his collection to Washington, D.C., and put it on exhibit while living in the Petersen House, the boarding house where Lincoln died. In 1926, Oldroyd sold his monumental assemblage to the Government for $50,000 – a great deal of which can be seen in the Ford’s Theatre Museum. The next few lots all originate from Oldroyd’s retained papers.]

1098. Oldroyd’s Lincoln Stationery and Postcard. A lovely pair, a 8 x 11″ lettersheet for the “Lincoln Memorial Co.”, c. 1890, together with a 1905 postcard captioned “ABRAHAM LINCOLN, through log cabins to the WHITE HOUSE” showing renderings of his birthplace, his 1817 Indiana home, his Illinois home of 1830 and lastly, the White House. Curiously, he omits his more lavish Springfield home, probably because it complicates the rustic Lincoln mystique. (OPEN)
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“You have made a valuable contribution to the story for the Assassination.”
1099. (OLDROYD) William H. LAMBERT. (1842-1912) One of the “Big Five” collectors of Lincoln. Born in Reading Pennsylvania, Lambert served as a soldier in the Civil War rising to the rank of Brevet Major. After the war he became manager of the New York Mutual Life Insurance Company’s agency in Philadelphia, a post he held for 40 years. During this period he became a studious collector of Lincoln. His collection included several books from Lincoln’s library, the bookcase, table, and chair from Lincoln’s law office, as well as chairs from the White House library. Lambert also owned a large collection of manuscripts including twenty-two letters from Lincoln to Lyman Trumbull as well as his letter to Orville Browning explaining his revocation of John C. Frémont’s emancipation proclamation in Missouri. Lambert’s collection was partially destroyed in 1906 when a fire consumed the Lincoln law office and White House furniture as well as many of the books. Fortunately most of the manuscripts were in a safe at the time. Upon his death they were sold at Anderson Galleries in New York in 1914. The noted Lincoln collector writes to fellow collector Osborn Oldroyd in a series of five fine content Autograph Letters Signed, 5.5 x 9″, 14p. total Philadelphia, dating between December 20, 1901 and January 27, 1908 concerning collecting and Lincoln, and reads in small part: “…[December 20, 1901] I was glad to receive copy of the book, I have read it with great interest… You have made a valuable contribution to the story for the Assassination and I hope to book will have large sale when a Second Edition is called for… [January 27, 1908] I had supposed I had fully solved the Ford’s Theatre Play Bill – but I have received a letter from a correspondent in New York show states that some years ago H C Ford wrote him to the following Effect ‘Polkinhorn first printed a play bill without mentioning the Presidents name after he accepted the invitation more play bills were printed in the afternoon to advise the public of Lincoln’s visit’ so there are two genuine play bills’ – ‘Both the Polkinhorn bills were authorized by Ford and both are genuine – these with or without the announcement of the President’s visit ‘ – If the foregoing statements are correct, then there were three (3) genuine bills. For I think there can be no doubt that the one with the stanza of song is [illeg.] I now have copies of Each of the three, but had supposed the Polkinhorn bill with Lincoln’s name was issued as a Souvenir after April 14. Apparently one [illeg.] the name was issued after that date. Can you give me any information on the subject…” Together with two 1912 typed letters from Lambert’s secretary to Oldroyd concerning a debt of $150. Together seven letters. Usual folds, a few letters lightly and evenly toned, otherwise very good. (OPEN)
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1100. (OLDROYD) FALLOWS, Samuel. (c. 1836-1922) Union Chaplain from Wisconsin who became a dissident Episcopal Bishop and the National Patriotic Instructor for the Grand Army of the Republic. Typed Letter Signed, Chicago, Dec. 16, 1908 concerning the upcoming 100th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth and recommending to a correspondent that if they “…kindly write to O. H. Oldroyd, Ass’t Adj. Gen., Grand Army of the Republic, Department of the Potomac, Washington, D.C., he will give you information regarding a very interesting Program of Exercises which can be used on this Birthday Celebration…” Light toning at upper left fold, else very good. Fun collateral history! (OPEN)
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Locating the whereabouts of aging Confederate leaders!
1101. (OLDROYD) William Woods HOLDEN. (1818-92) Reconstruction-era Governor of North Carolina. A fine content ALS, Raleigh, March 10, 1874 to Oldroyd providing locations for various Civil War generals, governors and former members of the Confederate Congress in their waning years. Includes details on where the author might find M.W. Ransom, Zebulon Vance, Rufus Barringer, George Davis, James M. Leach and others. Usual folds, light soiling, otherwise very good. Fun accounting for the whereabouts of the aging Confederate comrades! (OPEN)
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1102. (OLDROYD) On borrowing Lincoln’s clothes! A fine content TLS on Harper’s Weekly letterhead from Editor Norman Hapgood to Oldroyd in his capacity as the Curator of the Lincoln Museum, New York, September 10, 1913 requesting a suit of Lincoln’s clothes to be used as a model for “One of our best American sculptors, George Gray Barnard…” He notes that Barnard had recently completed “…a really wonderful head of Abraham Lincoln, to be put up in a park in Cincinnati. The statue is to be twice life size. Before doing the body, he wants to get a suit of clothes worn by the President. Can you help him out at all? I understand that you have such a suit, and I hope very much you will find it possible to lend it to him…” Paperclip stain at upper left, otherwise fine. (OPEN)

1103. (OLDROYD)The U.S. Government Takes over the Oldroyd Collection. Fine content TLS, by Army Corps Lt. Col. C. O. Sherrill, Washington, Oct. 25, 1922 to Oldroyd: “…With reference to the proposed taking over of your collection of Lincoln relics by the Government and its maintenance free of charge for the benefit of the pubic, I have appointed the following committee to determine definitely the value of the collection and the practicability of having the same taken over by the Government: Mr. O. H. Oldroyd, Mr. Frank T. Gartsie, office of Public Buildings and Grounds, Mr. T. T. Belote, Curator of History, U.S. National Museum…”. Light damp stain toward top, else very good. This was the beginning of what became one of this country’s great institutional collections/exhibits! (OPEN)
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1104. (OLDROYD)On the capture and burial of Booth! A set of four typed letters from one J. N. Kimball of New York dated between 1907 and 1912 to Oldroyd discussing his father’s Civil War service and the possibility of finding Lincoln and/or Booth related material for Oldroyd’s collection. The letters read in small part: “…I am sending you enclosed… an original sketch of Lincoln, made by Arthur Lumley, at that time artist for Frank Leslie’s Illustrated newspaper… simply a sketch which he made at the time. Lincoln was trying the new rifles, just outside of Washington—and Mr. and Mrs. Seward sat looking on — the rough sketch at the bottom being intended for them… Lumley told me a few days ago that he one day had business with someone at the White House, and as he went up onto the porch a band came playing up the street. He stopped and turned to listen, and shortly after felt a `great big paw’ as he expressed it on his shoulder, and someone said, ‘Well, my boy, where are they going?’ Lumley turned and saw the president, standing with his hand on his shoulder; and remarked—‘I guess they are coming here, Mr. President.’ ‘No,’ replied Lincoln, ‘they’re going up [to] serenade Bill Seward—let’s go up.” I don’t know that I ever heard a story that exhibits the democratic sprit of Lincoln more plainly…” Kimball also notes the sending of another sketch accomplished by Lumley while Lincoln was “…sitting for his portrait by Brady…” Paperclip stains at top, a few marginal tears and chips, otherwise very good. (OPEN)

1105. [G.A.R.] Autograph Letter Signed by
John C. WATSON, the Admiral who commanded the Cuban Blockading Squadron, 2pp. quarto, September 30, 1904, with cover addressed to Wilmon Blackmar. It reads in part: “I do remember you with much pleasure and the news of your election as Commander in Chief of the Grand Army of the Republic was very welcome… I would very gladly serve on your staff; but I have never become a member of any Grand Army Post…” Mounted else VG. Fun association between those still in active service and the aging veterans of the Civil War.
(Est. $50-75)
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1106. MARKHAM, Edwin. (1852-1940) Markham was a well-loved poet and author. He penned what has been called one of the most popular poems of all time, “The Man with the Hoe.” He was a true admirer of Lincoln and composed numerous works to memorialize the President including this privately-printed copy of his work, “Lincoln, the Man of the People.” This poem was read by Chief Justice William Howard Taft before 100,000 people at the dedication of the Lincoln Memorial in 1922. Measures 8 x 10″, boldly signed “Your friend, Edwin Markham,” a lovely presentation piece. (Est. $100-150)
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1107. MARKHAM, Edwin. Signed sepia-toned photo with photographer’s copyright, “Miss Whyte,” in image. Boldy signed and dated 1936, 5 x 8″ overall, quite handsome. (Est. $100-200)
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1108. A U.S. Centennial gem! Magnificent 4 x 2 1/4″ card commemorating the 67th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln’s birth, the same year the U.S. turned 100 years old! Excellent! (OPEN)
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1109. 8.5″ long multicolored G.A.R. ribbon from an 1883 encampment in Denver. Some light pulls/foxing, a pretty design. (Est. $50-80)
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1110. Pristine 3 x 5.5″ paper ribbon honoring the 129th PA. Blue on creme, touching. (Est. $80-100)
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1111. An evocative, sepia-toned group portrait, 6 1/2 x 4 1/2″, the “Lincoln Club, Geneva, Ohio.” The photograph, by Lawrence of Geneva, shows these ancient G.A.R. members holding Lincoln plaques, circa 1900. Includes embossed photographer’s imprint, one light streak at middle, small loss of photo at top, else fine. Quite an impressive gathering… these “old codgers” may have actually been around to meet Lincoln! A fun item. (OPEN)
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1112. Brightly colored lithograph advertising Lincoln Centennial Grand March sheet music, 10 1/2 x 14″, 1909, A. Hoen & Co., Richmond. Absolutely gorgeous! (Est. $100-150)
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1113. A huge presentation tankard (pitcher?) hallmarked “`25′ -99%-plate” by the famed Middletown Plate Company of Middletown, CT. Wonderful high-relief medallions of George Washington adorn each side with geometric pattern running throughout. Established in 1864, Middleton (which became part of the International Silver Company in 1898) was the source for trophies and presentation items of this magnitude in the immediate post-Civil War era. This 12″ tall (including affixed lid) was engraved for “H.B. Case” and presented by his close friends whose initials are detailed below. With a compass and protractor symbol above Case’ name, we assume this to be a Masonic item. Typical age/wear with light dulling to silver in spots, overall quite fine void of pitting. A really impressive display piece! (Est. $600-800)
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1114. Lincoln Mug. Ceramaic mug from “Ninth Annual Session” of the Grand Council of the “U.C.T” in Lincoln, Nebraska, May 4-5, 1906 bearing a bust portrait of Lincoln in red tint on a blue background and gilt base. Measures 4.25″ tall. Gilt at top worn away, otherwise very good. (Est. $100-150)
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1115. “Union Forever” period shot glass with “Bumper to the Flag” slogan. Clasped hands, flags and shield adorn this 3″ tall glass rarity. Liberty pole with cap found on each side, no discernable faults or flaws; exceptional. (Est. $300-500)
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1116. The classic, milk-glass candy dish with bas-relief portrait and criss-crossed split-rail pattern. We are not certain of vintage but know they were first made as early as the Centennial. Most have chips along edges, this example is pristine save for one tiny dimple at right eye from when made. (Est. $100-150)
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1117.The Rail Splitter on China. A lovely piece of Homer Lauglin China, a bowl bearing a transfer print of Lincoln “splitting the rails” in red. 6.75″ in diameter. A few minor spots along rim, otherwise very good. (Est. $100-150)
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1118. 7″ commemorative plate issued by John P. Russell Department Store of Boyles, Alabama: General Lee on his famous horse `Traveler.'” Fine, even crazing from age adds to handsome presentation; some wear to silver band, overall quite attractive. Certainly quite old… we suspect circa 1880. A fun item! (Est. $100-300)
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1119. Hand-painted decorative plate. 7 1/2″ salad plate with transfer portrait within a wreath, flanked by American flags and eagle. Hand-painted in red, blue, gold and tan. Manufactured circa 1890 by The Foley Company in England. Transfer has a few faint scratches of no consequence on Lincoln’s hair and suit. Attractive. (Est. $80-120)
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1120. Vintage souvenir from the “Lincoln Home, Springfield, Ill.” A green and white detailed bisque hanging piece, 5″ in diameter with highly raised design, a fun, old keepsake. (Est. $50-80)
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1121. Lovely, brass, bas-relief mounted plaque, 11x 7″ overall resting on a stippled, wooden base. More elegant than most of these commemorative pieces, the solid-filled visage has a deep patina reflecting it as a vintage item. A wonderful display piece. (Est. $100-200)
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1122.A rail in mid-split! A wonderful piece of folk-art, a small log 6.5″ long and 1.5″ in diameter replete with a wedge, mallet and axe on top. On the shaved side of the log, bears the somewhat faded words: “Lincoln the Rail Splitter” with a tiny profile likeness of Lincoln stamped at left. Dated on one end “May 25, 1938”. A wonderful little souvenir! (OPEN)
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The smallest Lincoln book ever published.
1123. Addresses of Abraham Lincoln. (Kingsport Press, Kingsport, TN: 1929). M-3105. The smallest book on Lincoln, 7/8 x 5/8″, 139pps, gilt edges, full red morocco. Excellent condition with perfect, tiny text – printed before the advent of computer-aided technology! Created for an exhibition of the Bookbinders of America at Boston, 1928. (A leading book dealer recently offered a copy for $1,500.) A fascinating piece, magnifying glass not included! (Est. $250-300)
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1124. G.A.R. watch fob. 1 1/2″ in diameter medallion with raised portraits of B. F. Stephenson, G.A.R. Founder along with W.G. Veazey, “Com. In Chief.” “Fraternity, Loyalty, Charity – 1861-1865” is detailed on verso. We assume this dates to about 1890 when Colonel Wheelock Graves Veazey, one of the founders of the organization, assumed command. Veazey served in the Civil War 1861-3, being promoted to Colonel of the 16th Vermont Volunteer Infantry in October 1862. He earned the Medal of Honor at Gettysburg when during Pickett’s Charge he “Rapidly assembled his regiment and charged the enemy’s flank; charged the front under heavy fire, and charged and destroyed a Confederate brigade, all this with new troops in their first battle.” A small 1837 dime (heavily rubbed) is likewise affixed to the 15″ silver braided chain. Medal has typical age/pitting. A neat keepsake! (Est. $50-100)
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1125. A fun, scarce item: celebrating the 1906 “Golden Jubilee Convention” (50th anniversary) of the National Republican League. The site of the first meeting for the newly formed Republican Party in 1856 is featured on verso: the Musical Fund Hall in Philadelphia. 38mm. chocolate bronze medal with high relief design, some typical indents to outer rim, a fine patina. A neat item – the first we’ve encountered. (OPEN)
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1126. A cute, oval celluloid stickpin depicting the Crucifix, flag, and Lincoln. Howard Hyde Russell founded the Lincoln Legion in 1903. It was a pledge program which asked for abstinence from the use of alcohol by its signers. Sixty-five years before the founding of the Lincoln Legion, farmers and their families gathered at the South Fork School House in Sangamon County, Illinois to hear a thrilling appeal for total abstinence and to sign the pledge presented by a young lawyer named Abraham Lincoln. Among the signers was a ten year old boy Cleopas Breckenridge. Breckenridge repeated what Lincoln had said to him that night many years later when a new pledge movement was begun by Howard Hyde Russell. Lincoln told him,”Now, Sonny keep that pledge and it will be the best act of your life.” In 1912 at a gathering of the Anti-Saloon League forces in Washington, D.C. it was decided to rename the pledge movement the Lincoln-Lee Legion to honor a son of the South who had a temperate life style. In 1869 General Robert E. Lee wrote, “My experience through life has convinced me that while moderation and temperance in all things are commendable and beneficial, abstinence from spirituous liquors is the best safeguard to morals and health.” Girls who signed the pledge were called “Willards” and boys who signed were called “Lincolns”. Over five million people signed these abstinence pledge cards. A sweet item. (OPEN)
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You’re not fully-dressed without one!
1127. [Jewelry] Honest Abe – The Rail Splitter ax-brooch, an excellent reproduction of the rare 1860 campaign artifact, this fashioned into a tie-clasp. With a nice patina, could “fool” most! Certainly more affordable than the $4,000 original! (OPEN)
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1128.A presentation copy signed by Frederick Hill Meserve!This Is Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Hill Meserve. With an Introduction by Carl Sandburg. (Lincoln Memorial University, Harrogte, TN: 1941.) One of 300 copies signed and numbered by the photography historian Meserve, bound in lovely titled blue cloth with custom slipcase. This booklet was issued as an album to facilitate the placement of “Abraham Lincoln `Immortal American'” photographic stamps. (Affixed in this special copy.) The stamps were made using the original negatives owned by Meserve (see following two lots), this is a handsome tribute.
(Est. $150-200)
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1129. “To know Lincoln is to be a better citizen.” Two (2) sets of the 1940 Meserve stamps together with accompanying collector’s album: one with the stamps affixed, one with the sheet intact and album blank. Extremely fine, great keepsakes. (OPEN)
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1130. Check this out…from different cities around the country named “Lincoln” – two from cities named “Abraham.” Group of fifteen (15) postal-used covers canceled on Lincoln’s birthday in 1945. Utilizing all thirty of the Meserve stamps, these have been posted from states with “appropriate” cancellations! A great philatelic set. (OPEN)
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1131. An early souvenir from Springfield: a set of real-photo stamps distributed exclusively by one H.N. Shonkwiler. Comes intact with original envelope and insert. We believe circa 1940s… certainly vintage… and fun! (OPEN)
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1132.A souvenir issued by Herbert Wells Fay, keeper of the Lincoln Tomb! A 4 x 5 1/2″ photo printed by Fay with his handwritten 1894 note on verso with copyright. Light age, a fine example. Fay loved to greet visitors, many of whom “donated” invaluable Lincoln relics and documents to what became Fay’s personal collection. He no doubt reciprocated with “vanity photos” such as this! (Est. $70-90)
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1133. President-Elect Lincoln from the original negative. CDV-sized silver print made directly from the original negative, in the celebrated F.H. Meserve collection; in small presentation folder, #205 of 250, produced for the New Jersey Civil War Centennial Commission in 1961. The photo (O-50), taken at Mathew Brady’s gallery by Alexander Gardner in Feb. 1861, shows Lincoln at a table which holds an inkwell and his trademark stovepipe hat (painter George H. Story, then a Brady tenant, had been asked to “pose” Lincoln for this sitting but finding him “wholly absorbed in deep thought” told Gardner to simply set up his camera and take the picture). Very fine. (OPEN)
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1134.He played Lincoln more than any other actor!
Frank McGlynn Sr. (1866-1944) virtually made a cottage industry out of playing the former President. A tall, commanding actor, McGlynn was a member of the Edison Company in the decade after the turn of the century. His professional future was secured when, in 1919, he starred on Broadway in John Drinkwater’s play Abraham Lincoln. Thereafter, McGlynn was best known as Hollywood’s foremost Lincoln impersonator. In film roles, he played Lincoln no fewer than seven times between 1934-37. He was cast as Honest Abe in roles that were oft “historical cameos” with credits in: Are We Civilized? (1934), Hearts in Bondage (1935), The Littlest Rebel (1935), Prisoner of Shark Island (1936), The Plainsman (1936), Wells Fargo (1937), The Lone Ranger (1939) and the Warner Bros. historical short Lincoln at the White House (1939). (The actor’s son, Frank McGlynn Jr. is also a well-known film actor, usually seen in hillbilly roles.) An original photograph by Marice Goldberg, his embossed credit on the 8 x 10″ portrait, presenting the actor in his greatest role. Excellent! (OPEN)
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Check this out… President Harding
sound asleep at his Lincoln Dinner!
1135. Large, original photograph by Underwood, imprint on verso, ca. 1922, 17 x 22″, with an impressive body of celebrants at a White House Lincoln birthday dinner – note the large Lincoln photograph by Hesler above the dais! We sort of recognize a few of these codgers… and, are pleased to point out “Uncle Joe” Cannon diving into his mashed potatoes on the far right. But the figure of note, the President of the United States, Warren G. Harding (toward left side of photo) is found to be taking a snooze! A fun item to be sure! (Est. $100-300)
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The largest Wilkie signed photograph ever seen – inscribed to members of the Bronx, New York Lincoln Club!

1136.WILLKIE, Wendell Lewis. (1892-1944) 1940 Presidential candidate against F.D.R., businessman, lawyer. His campaign pose, on board, 19 x 22″ with Greystone 1940 copyright, small abrasion at bottom of border could be matted-out, inscribed “To Abraham Levy, Carrie Raible, and the Members of the Lincoln Club with my appreciation and thanks.” Raible and Levy were members of the Bronx Republican Committee; Levy was a delegate to the Republican National Convention from New York in every campaign from 1940 through 1956. A great display piece! (Est. $200-300)
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With “Survivors of Pickett’s Famous Brigade” present!
1137. A fabulous red, white and blue broadside, 15 x 34″ celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Battle of Gettysburg… at Gettysburg! The broadside promises famous Union generals from the war, artillery and cavalry of the U.S. army, fireworks, and “The Survivors of Pickett’s Famous Brigade will hold a Reunion.” Held on July 1st, 2nd and 3rd (1903) to coincide with the battle, the broadside announces that there will be “Specially Low Rates…by all the railroads.” Archival restoration on verso, minor separation at usual folds, overall, a stunning presentation. A great reunion piece! (Est. $400-600)
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NEWSPAPERS
Lincoln in the News!
1138. A copy of the Vandalia Free Press and Illinois Whig, January 24, 1839, 4pp. The paper is dedicated to proceedings of the Illinois State Legislature, not long after the Illinois state government is removed from Vandalia to Springfield. On each page there are comments made by Lincoln on various pieces of legislation before the Illinois House. On page four, Lincoln is quoted at length as favoring the sale of land owned by the State over a number of years so as to discourage speculators and provide revenues for the State, all outlined in a report Lincoln has given to the legislators. Normal folds, some loss at edges without loss of print. An extremely scarce and quite early issue with Lincoln content. (OPEN)
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Everyone who’s ANYONE
in Springfield… Even an ad for Lincoln’s law firm!
1139.Daily Illinois State Journal. Springfield, 1858. From Lincoln’s home town with a small, front-page advertisement for “Lincoln & Herndon, Attorneys & Counselors at Law.” Also found are ads for other Lincoln associates and colleagues: Moffett, Stuart & Edwards (Lincoln’s earlier partner), the Conklings, Matheny, as well as news on local campaigns and ads for everything from ambrotype artists to the Lincoln House! A fun piece from before Lincoln gave up his practice for national office. (Est. $200-300)
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1140.First Lincoln Inaugural newspaper extra. 8 1/2 x 11 1/2″ Daily Dispatch–Extra. Monday, March 4th, 1861. printed on one side. Contains the entire inaugural address save for the concluding paragraph, as well as a transcript of a letter from a soldier stationed at Fort Moultrie with references to Lincoln’s clandestine passage through Baltimore and the political climate in the South. In addition, news reprinted from a Charleston newspaper gives ominous details relative to military preparations in the South. The headlines read: “Inaugural of Mr. Lincoln. He Intends To Hold The U.S. Property. The Revenues are to be Collected. The Union Not Yet Broken. The Government Forces at his Command to be used to Recover the Federal Property.” Usual folds, small tape stains at corners (easily matted out) and two tears skillfully repaired with archival tape. An evocative document presaging the outbreak of the Civil War.
(Est. $200-300)
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1141.Newspapers from Union-Occupied South Carolina.
A set of four (4) newspapers including two issues of The Palmetto Herald, of Port Royal (March 10 & 24, 1864) and The Free South, of Beaufort,, (June 11 & 18, 1864). Papers include pro-Union news reports on the war as well as the usual letters, proclamations and advertisements including the announcement of the grand opening of a new tavern in Beaufort, aptly named “LINCOLN HOUSE.” A few marginal tears, overall quite clean. Great content issued by the armed, occupying forces who took over the press! Four scarce papers. (Est. $250-350)
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1142. And John Wilkes Booth was just feet away to hear the words of conciliation: “With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see right, let us finish the work we are in, to bind up the nation’s wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphans, to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations.” A complete, 8pp. issue of The New York Times, March 5, 1865, with detailed coverage of “The Inauguration.” The President’s Second Inaugural Address (the last paragraph quoted above) is published in its entirety along with news from the various fronts as the war came to a conclusion. Someone underlined in red the headline else this important newspaper is quite clean. (Est. $200-300)
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One of the rarest and most desirable papers
– among the first reports of the assassination.
1143. While six editions (“Extras”) of the Herald were published on April 15th, copies that include the detail that the President still lived were among the earliest. This black-ruled edition of the New York Tribune, April 15, 1865, is the prohibitively rare issue that was published late at night with the 4:30am bulletin update that the President was still alive at 3:00 am. Black mourning rules with extensive coverage on page 8. Minor chipping at edge/spine, very light age toning, overall quite clean and fine. (Est. $750-1,500) Click Here to View Image

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