This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/29/2026
Louis Weichman autograph letter signed to Judge John A. Bingham, prosecutor of the Abraham Lincoln assassination conspirators. Weichmann was the star witness for the prosecution, giving eyewitness testimony of the conspirators colluding at Mary Surratt's boarding house. Weichman also traveled with Surratt to Maryland the day of the assassination where Surratt delivered binoculars and organized firearms that John Wilkes Booth and David Herold would use in their escape.
In this letter, Weichmann pleads with Bingham to help him secure employment, as he's suffered ''persecution by the Democratic Party and, I regret to say, by leading church dignitaries in the Church in which I was reared.'' Dated 31 January 1889 from Anderson, Indiana, letter reads in part,
''...I have concluded to make application at the proper time to re-enter the government service, and I now kindly ask you to give me the weight of your influence when the opportune moment comes. / A number of prominent gentlemen, Judge [Joseph] Holt, Gen. Lew Wallace, Gen. [James] Ekin and others will assist me to the extent of their ability. / My life has been one of trial and persecution - persecution by the Democratic Party and, I regret to say, by leading church dignitaries in the Church in which I was reared. This has made it all the more bitter. / I trust this government will find me a place to earn my bread, and to that extent protect me against wrong...L.J. Weichmann''. He then adds, ''Please let me hear from you.''
Two page letter on a single sheet measures 5'' x 8''. Light soiling and toning, and partial split to fold. Very good condition.