February 2012 Auction Ends Tuesday, February 28th, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/28/2012
Poignant letter from the son of Secretary of State William H. Seward, who survived a knife attack by Lewis Powell the night of the assassination of President Lincoln. Seward's son, an eyewitness at Ford's Theatre the night of Lincolns murder, writes to prosecution witness Louis Weichmann about the fateful night. Letter dated 29 August 1901 reads in full, "Dear Sir:- I have your letter of the 27th, inst. Mrs. Seward died June 21 1865 immediately following the partial recovery of Mr. Seward and my brother Frederick. My sister, Frances, who was in poor health at the time did not die until the following year, both deaths I have no doubt, were hastened by the shock of the attempted assassination. I am unable to answer your question as to whether or not Mr. Lincoln had any other attendant with him, except Col. Rathbone. Perhaps my brother, Hon. Frederick V. Seward, Montrose, Westchester Co., N.Y., may be able to answer that question. Very truly yours, [signed] William H. Seward". Written upon "Banking House of Wm. H. Seward & Co." stationery, letter measures 11" x 8.5". Some light toning and tears to top edge. Very good condition.
William Seward Jr. Writes of Lincoln's Assassination -- "…I am unable to answer…whether Mr. Lincoln had any other attendant with him, except Col. Rathbone…"
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