ALS as president signed “R. B. Hayes,” one page, 4.5 x 6.25, Executive Mansion letterhead, December 7, 1880. Letter to Colonel Clark. In full, “I regret that we cannot accept your kind invitation. Gen. Garfield will not be east again for some 2 weeks.” Incumbent President Rutherford Hayes did not seek re-election, keeping a promise made during the 1876 campaign. The Republican Party eventually chose another Ohioan, James Abram Garfield, as their standard-bearer. The Democratic Party meanwhile chose Civil War General Winfield Scott Hancock as their nominee. Despite capturing less than 10,000 more popular votes than Hancock, Garfield was easily elected, capturing 214 of the states’ 369 electoral votes. It is to date the smallest popular vote victory in American history. Double matted and framed to an overall size of 16 x 12.5. In fine condition, with intersecting folds and a pencil line under Garfield’s name in text. Auction LOA Steve Grad/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
