Partly printed DS as president, one page on vellum, 14.75 x 18, February 24, 1863. An appointment of George F. Woodman as Commissary of Subsistence of Volunteers with the rank of captain. On the following day, February 25, Congress passed the first federal draft in American history, the infamous Conscription Act, which was signed into law by Lincoln a week later, on March 3. The most controversial provision—a “commutation fee” that enabled a draftee to buy his way out of military service by hiring a substitute or paying $300—caused a nationwide uproar. Derided for the patently unfair advantage it afforded wealthy, well-heeled draftees, the act was the direct catalyst for the infamous Draft Riots that rocked New York City over a three-day period in the following July, resulting in $1.5 million in damage and dozens of casualties. Countersigned by Edwin Stanton as Secretary of War. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, a few small losses, lower left corner torn and repaired on the reverse, scattered dampstaining (mainly confined to margins), moderate wrinkling, light soiling, and Lincoln’s signature just a shade light but well contrasted and quite distinct. The embossed blue seal remains intact at upper left. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
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