Lot 221
Harrison, Anna Symmes & Grace Coolidge (1775-1864), In 1841 Mrs. Harrison became the First Lady of the United States during President William Henry Harrison's brief one-month term in office. Anna was 65 years old during her husband's presidential term, she is the oldest woman ever to become First Lady, as well as having the distinction of holding the title for the shortest length of time, and the first person to be widowed while holding the title. Mrs. Harrison never lived at the White House as she was ill at the time of President Harrison's Inauguration. Autograph letter signed as "Wife of President," 1 page, 7 x 7½ in., brown ink on plain paper, Northbend, August 12, 1844. The widow responds to a request from a friend: "I received your letter while I was on a visit to one of my children in the city of Cincinnati, or I would have attended to your request sooner, but hope it will not arrive too late for the purpose you design it for- Accept Sir, my best wishes for your health & happiness / ever your friend…" Strong bold signature. Red seal remnant; age toned; slight staining. With free franked envelope, 3¼x 5½ in., no place, April 6, c. 1842-1864. To Mrs. Mary L.R. Steet, Indianapolis, Indiana. Age toned. One inch vertical tear bottom left corner. After the President's death, Anna held the franking privilege form September 9, 1841 until her own death on February 25, 1864.
Grace Coolidge (1879-1957) autograph letter signed, 2 pages, 6¾ x 5¼ in., Northampton, Mass., Jan. 16, 1934. A year after the death of Calvin Coolidge, the former First Lady writes to Calvin Coolidge Republican Recruits, Hicksville, Long Island, acknowledging with appreciation a card bestowing membership in their organization upon her.
Estimated Value $1,200 - 1,500.
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