LS signed “A. Lincoln,” one page, 5.5 x 7, October 11, 1860. Lincoln writes to Chas. H. Anderson. In full: “Herewith I send you my autograph, which you request.” The body of the letter is in the hand of Elmer Ellsworth, a Chicago law clerk who had gone to Springfield in August of 1860 to study in Lincoln’s law office and help with Lincoln’s campaign. After the election in November, Ellsworth moved into the White House and played regularly with the Lincoln children. Eager to invade the South, Ellsworth, as Colonel of the New York Fire Zouaves, led his men down the streets of Alexandria, across the Potomac from Washington, on May 24, 1861, the day after Virginia seceded from the Union. Spotting a defiant Confederate flag atop the Marshall House Hotel, Ellsworth stormed to the roof and tore the rebel banner down. As he descended the stairs in triumph, the indignant hotel owner ambushed him with a shotgun. The brash young Ellsworth fell dead, a victim of his patriotic zeal, becoming an immediate hero and a rallying point for Union sentiments. Lincoln himself would later characterize Ellsworth as “the greatest little man I ever met.” The letter also bears an ink notation, probably by the original recipient, at upper left: “Born: Feb 12, 1809/Died...” Cloth matted and framed with a color portrait of Lincoln to an overall size of 19.5 x 17. In fine condition, with intersecting mailing folds, small tear to bottom edge, and a few spots of trivial toning. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
We use cookies on this site to improve your experience. By using this site, you accept our use of cookies. To learn more, please see our Privacy Policy.
