Free-franked black-bordered mailing envelope, 4.5 x 2.5, addressed in another hand to New York milliner Ruth Harris, "Madame Harris & Son, 729 Broadway, New York," and franked in the upper right as president, "A. Lincoln." Postmarked at Washington, April 7, [no date]. Archivally encapsulated in Mylar, mounted, matted, and framed with a gilt-edged porcelain ‘Oval Office Collection’ portrait by Christian Bell Porcelain and nameplate to an overall size of 11.75 x 14.75. In very good to fine condition, with a professionally repaired semicircular tear to the left of the signature, scattered light foxing, and scratching to the top of the frame.
This black-bordered mourning envelope likely dates to the months after the death of Willie Lincoln, the third son of Abraham and Mary Todd, in February 1862. In a letter written by Mary Todd Lincoln to Ruth Harris in May 1862, she requested two new hats: a 'very fine black straw—trimmed stylishly with colors' and 'a mourning bonnet—which must be exceedingly plain & genteel.' Harris rushed the order back to the first lady, who replied that she was very pleased. Lincoln is scarce in free franks, and this example's association with Mary Todd's milliner makes it especially intriguing.
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