This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 5/29/2026
Very rare Mary Todd Lincoln autograph letter signed as First Lady, reflecting on the passing of her son Willie one year prior in February 1862. Willie's death is well known to have caused Mary extreme grief, even leading her to conduct seances in the White House in order to speak with him once more. Composed on her personal mourning stationery with monogram at top, datelined ''Executive Mansion'' on 10 March 1863, letter to her and Abraham's friend, Benjamin Brown French, reads in full,
''Your kind note, accompanied by the sad and touching lines, were received by me on yesterday, allow me to express my thanks to you, for your remembrance. Such a mark of friendship will long be cherished, when in after years, we shall all have passed from the scene of action. Our heavy bereavement has caused this to be a very painful winter to me, yet situated as we are, being compelled to receive the world at large, I have endeavored to bear up, under our afflictions, as well as I can. With kind regards to Mrs. French, I remain very sincerely your friend. / Mary Lincoln.''
Three page letter on bifolium stationery measures 4.25'' x 5.75''. Light adhesive residue and short splits along folds. Very good condition with elegant and bold handwriting.