Lot 14
Garfield, James A (1831-1881) 20th president of the U.S. (March-Sept., 1881). Autograph Letter Signed as President-Elect, on letterhead engraved "Mentor, Ohio," December 23, 1880, 1 pg, octavo. Addressed to General George B. Wright in Indianapolis. In part, "…Accept my thanks for your congratulations and suggestions. Such information as you give me concerning the state of affairs in the south is peculiarly welcome just now…." Light toning; one closed tear high in the text lightly affects one letter. Double-matted with a 4½ x 3½ in. albumen chest-up photograph in an oval mat, elegantly framed to an overall size of 22½ x 12¼ inches.
At the Republican National Convention in Chicago in June 1880, the party was divided between the "Stalwarts" and the "Half-Breeds." The former, headed by New York Senator Roscoe Conkling, wanted to win the nomination for former President Grant, while the Half-Breeds, led by Maine Senator James G. Blaine, wanted it for Blaine. As head of the Ohio delegation, Garfield avoided taking sides and placed his fellow Ohioan John Sherman in nomination. After thirty-three stalemated ballots, Wisconsin gave its votes to Garfield and Blaine supported him. Garfield won on the thirth-sixth ballot. After a mere four months as President, Garfield was shot on July 2, 1881, by a disappointed office seeker, Charles J. Guiteau; he died Sept. 19, 1881.
Estimated Value $700 - 900.
|
| |
| Realized $834 |
