4 vols.
(Lincoln, Abraham.) Manuscript Diaries. Dyer, Sarah A. [Washington D.C.], Wed. Sept. 1, 1858 - July 12th, 1860; June 20th, 1864 - July 20th, 1865. 4to, marbled bds. 1 vol. disbound. Some scattered spotting, staining and tears to a few pages. Entries relating to life in Washington D.C., visits to the Smithsonian, White House, Botanical Gardens etc. Entries dating to 1864 and 1865 include comments on the war "April 3rd 1865. Richmond was taken at quarter past eight this morning by our soldiers under Grant ably assisted by Sherman's cavalry. A colored brigade first entered the city which must have been humiliating to the rebel aristocracy. Petersburg was captured Saturday the 1st. Work of all kinds has been suspended and the streets are crowded with a happy and excited multitude." and in an entry about Lincoln's assassination. "This week of rejoicing over the recent good news has suddenly and unexpectedly been turned into one of horror and indescribable sorrow. Last night Lincoln was shot while at Ford's theatre and dies this morning at half past seven. At the same time he was murdered an assassin went to Sec. Seward's residence and attempted to destroy his life. He received two deep gashes in his throat but it is thought he will recover. His son Fred Seward is still dangerously ill his skull having been mashed in two places. Fortunately Gen. Grant left the city in the morning which circumstances no doubt saved his life as it was understood he was to be at the theatre with our Pres. J. Wilkes Booth is the murderer of one of the best men who ever lived." Vol. 4 has flower specimens pressed between the first several pages.
Sarah Anne Dyer (b1842); daughter of Benj. Franklin Dyer and Eleanor Eliza Dyer, siblings to William, Margaret, Rosalie, Kate, Ellen and Mary, attended the Union Female Academy in Washington D.C under the tutelage of a Mrs. Richards.