LINCOLN, Abraham (1809-1865). Autograph letter signed ("A. Lincoln") to Benjamin Brown French. Executive Mansion, [Washington, D.C.], 14 October 1861.

1 p. on bifolium; 8 x 5 in. (203 x 127 mm); creasing from old folds; numerical notation in top left; scattered light soiling; remnants of old mount on verso.

In full: "My Dear Sir: Your note about Stackpole & Louis, is received. I am getting along so well with all here that I greatly dislike to make a break amongst them, unless there is something very definite and certain, impelling to it--Is there any such thing? A. Lincoln"

Thomas Stackpole and Louis Burgdorf were both doormen for Lincoln at the White House, each at one time serving as the doorkeeper to his office. The President was fond of them both, with Stackpole forming a close association with Mrs. Lincoln--he was one of her favorites--and who wrote that he was “a most worthy man & an especial friend of the President”. During the Fort Sumter crisis in March-April 1861, Stackpole delivered messages back and forth to the War Department. President Lincoln would go on to recommend both men for other government roles later in his first term.

Benjamin Brown French (1800-1870) served in Lincoln's administration as Commissioner of Public Buildings, and oversaw funeral arrangements for both Willie Lincoln, as well as the President. Among his other responsibilities was to oversee the expenditures for White House redecorating, a role which sometimes put him at odds with Mrs. Lincoln. French was present at both Lincoln's inauguration and the Gettysburg Address. He also gave the main speech on 14 April 1868 at the dedication of the Lincoln statue at Washington's City Hall.

Provenance:

Louise Taper, Beverly Hills, California

Property from the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Foundation

This lot is located in Chicago.