Rare and important manuscript DS as president, signed “Andrew Johnson,” one page, 7.75 x 10, Executive Office letterhead, May 31, 1865. President Johnson orders the closure of federal offices to honor the fallen Abraham Lincoln, in full: "Tomorrow the first of June being the day appointed for Special Humiliation and Prayer in consequence of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln late President of the United States, the Executive Office and the Various Departments will be closed during the day." Two words—"National" (replaced with "Special") and "Fasting"—are struck through in the body, denoting this as a draft of President Johnson's order. In fine condition, with some light toning and soiling.
On April 29, 1865, in the aftermath of President Lincoln's assassination, President Andrew Johnson issued a proclamation declaring June 1st as a national day of mourning. Churches and municipalities across the nation observed the day with religious services and public gatherings, and the late president was eulogized by scores of orators. Assorted ephemera was issued to commemorate the day, including pamphlets, mourning ribbons, cards, and badges. In anticipation of the solemn occasion, President Johnson shut down federal offices to officially mourn the nation's loss of a great American.
Provenance: The Forbes Collection.
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