$7,500
Estimate: $5,000 - $8,000
Auction: November 12, 2020 10:00:00 AM EDT
Washington, Sep(tember) 15, 1864. 1 p. Approximately 8 x 5 in. (203 x 127 mm). Autograph letter, signed by Lincoln, on Executive Mansion stationery, to Mrs. John Swett. Mounted at top edge to card; residue on verso from previous mount; creasing from original folds. In frame.
Sixteenth president Abraham Lincoln kindly writes to the mother of his longtime firend, advisor, and associate, Leonard Swett: "Mrs John Swett, Madam At the suggestion of your son, and my friend Leo-nard Swett, I take the liberty of sending you the accompanying pic-ture. Yours truly Abraham Lincoln".
Leonard Swett (1825-89) was a civil and criminal lawyer, and friend of Lincoln's, working alongside him in the Illinois court circuit for many years. He helped organize the 1860 Chicago Republican National Convention and the 1864 presidential election. Lincoln often called on Swett for advice on political matters, and was an effective strategist during crucial moments in Lincoln's politcial career.