Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility
(800) 937-3880
SELL

Lot #117
Andrew Johnson Autograph Endorsement Signed as President

President Johnson refers a rebel blacksmith's plea for pardon to the Secretary of the Navy: "I pledge myself that my loyalty to my country shall never again be questioned"

This lot has closed

Estimate: $400+
Sell a Similar Item?
Share:  

Description

President Johnson refers a rebel blacksmith's plea for pardon to the Secretary of the Navy: "I pledge myself that my loyalty to my country shall never again be questioned"

Autograph endorsement in pencil, signed as president, "Referred to the Sec of the Navy for consideration and report. A. J.," on the reverse of a letter sent to him by a former blacksmith at the Pensacola Naval Reserve, Florida, on December 24, 1866, requesting a pardon for his participation on the Confederate side during the Civil War. The letter reads, in full: "I beg respectfully to inform you that I was Master Black Smith at this Navy Yard before, and at the commencement of the late Rebellion I yielded to the prevailing sentiment of secession at that time, went with the multitude and worked at my trade of Black Smith, during the Rebellion upon Rebel works, and for which I am prescribed; and not only refused employment in this Navy Yard but banished from the Reserve. I am a working and a poor man and deeply regretting my former course of action; I most respectfully apply to you for Pardon. Having taken the Amnesty Oath and being truly repentant: I pledge myself that my loyalty to my country shall never again be questioned." In fine condition, with light soiling.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts
  • Dates: #618 - Ended October 13, 2021





This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for $75.00

*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.