American Historical Ephemera and Early Photography

HOUGHTON, Allen (1832-1884). Autograph letter signed ("Allen") while serving as paymaster of the Western Branch Union Army. St. Louis, [MO], 15 April 1865. 7pp, 5 x 8 in. (creasing at folds, toning, adhesive repair). To "Helena."

Houghton describes the arrival of news in St. Louis that Lincoln had been assassinated. In part: "The city was aroused from its slumbers this morning by the loud and fearful cry of the newsboys in every direction - 'Murder of President Lincoln!'...the usual morning bustle in the street seemed hush by the dreadful tidings...everyone seemed dumb with amazement and horror. All the public buildings and offices and all places of business are closed.." Houghton then describes the flags at half mast, black mourning drapery throughout the city, somber church services, and the continual arrival of dispatches with the latest news on the developing situation: "At 11:00 this morning the dispatches said Mr. Seward had died at 9:30 A.m. but the extras stated he was still living. But the noblest heart of Abraham Lincoln had ceased to beat - four years of toil and anxiety and responsibility and mighty deeds accomplished, unprecedented in the history of nations and his work is done - a martyr to liberty."

The U.S. Federal 1860 identifies Allen Houghton as a 27-year-old clerk living in Ashtabula, Ohio. He married Helen L. Osborn on 14 June 1865 in Ashtabula, Ohio.