Winter Discovery Auction Nov 14
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/14/2013
This is a LS by Lincoln answering a request from William H. Adams. The letter is dated "July 2nd, 1860" from Springfield, IL. Lincoln responds to an autograph request:
"Dear Sir, Herewith I send you my autograph which you request. Yours Truly," Lincoln signed at the bottom, "A. Lincoln" in black ink. The letter is in the hand of Lincoln's future White House Secretary, John Hay. Comes with the original price tags from NYC's B. Altman & Company and original owner, Goodspeeds Book Shop.
BACKGROUND: In 1847, Lincoln was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives. During his single term, Lincoln spoke out against the Mexican War and slavery. After switching allegiance to the new Republican Party in 1856, Lincoln ran for the U.S. Senate against Stephen A. Douglas. Although Lincoln lost, the race attracted national attention because of the candidates widely reported debates over the issue of slavery in the territories. Lincoln's standing was further enhanced on February 27, 1860, when, in New York City, before an influential audience, he delivered his brilliant Cooper Union speech. Here he argued that the Federal government had the power to limit slavery in the territories. On July 2, a degree of LL.D. was conferred on Lincoln by Knox College. Later that same month the Republicans nominated Lincoln for the Presidency on the third ballot at the convention in Chicago. The Democratic Party split into Northern and Southern factions, each with its own Presidential candidate. Lincoln's election the following November, over three other candidates, with only 40% of the popular vote, was unacceptable to Southerners. It became the pretext for first South Carolina and in quick order 10 other states to secede from the Union. 5.25 inches by 2.75 inches, Excellent Condition. Light toning, with signature mounted to a larger sheet.
Lincoln Signs an Autograph Request, dated July 13, 1860
Click above for larger image.