War-dated handwritten endorsement, signed as president, “A. Lincoln,” dated October 20, 1864, on an off-white 9.75 x 8 sheet. Lincoln writes, “Let this man be discharged. A. Lincoln. Oct. 20, 1864.” In fine condition, with scattered toning and soiling, several ink brushes, including a couple trivial brushes to Lincoln’s signature and endorsement, and missing lower left corner, affecting nothing.
Originally an integral leaf to a letter concerning Henry H. Smith, the page has been folded in thirds, as usual, for filing. The first column indicates that the letter was from Coldwater, Michigan, August 26, 1864, ostensibly from Republican Congressman Charles Upson and that he “Requests the discharge of Henry H. Smith 116 Co 2d Batt V.R.C. [Veterans Reserve Corps].” The 116th Company, 2nd Battalion, of the U.S. Veterans Reserve Corps was organized at Depot Camp, Washington, D.C., December 9, 1863.
The second column reads: “P.R. Division, Ordnance Office Oct. 20th 1864. Respectfully returned to Genl. Dyer Chief of Ordnance with the information that Mr. Smith has been in this Division since April 1864, and has proven himself, by natural, and acquired attainments, fully capable of performing the duties of a Clerk. W H Kurtz CC.” Followed by another endorsement which reads: “If Mr. Smith should be discharged from the service and should apply for a clerkship in this office, I would recommend him for appointment. Wm. Maynadier Col. & Acts. Ch’f Ord. Ordinance Office Oct 20th 1864.”
A manuscript endorsement signed “M. N. Wisewell” as Colonel and Assistant to the Provost Marshall General, fills the third column. In full, “War Department, Pro Mar Genl Office, Washington, D.C./, Oct24th 1864. Respectfully referred to the Comdg Officer 116th Co 2nd Batt. V.R.C. who will cause the necessary papers to be made out for the discharge of the within named man in compliance with the direction of the President. These papers to be returned with report of actions. By order.”
Lincoln’s hands-on approach, going so far as to personally approve the discharge of a soldier, was typical of presidential administrations of the day. Much of the president’s work—when not directly supervising the war effort—typically involved meeting people or dealing with paperwork. As Lincoln’s signature was required on every new appointment or military promotion, the result was a seemingly endless stream of writing, with the pile of paperwork often standing eight inches high on some days! Such documents remain highly prized commodities, with this exemplar being no exception. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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