Police officer (1830–1890) in Washington’s Metropolitan Police Department who was supposed to guard President Lincoln’s box at Ford’s Theatre on the night of his assassination. He abandoned his post at intermission to go to a tavern next door, leaving the president vulnerable; shortly thereafter, John Wilkes Booth entered the unprotected box and fatally shot the president. ANS signed “John F. Parker, MP,” one page, lightly-lined, 5 x 3.25, US Sanitary Commission letterhead, June 22, 1865. Brief note regarding a fine. In full: “Received of Jas Monroe $20 for fine imposed.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds (one horizontal fold passing through top of signature). Accompanied by a Sanitary Commission envelope. RR Auction COA.
