Lot Morrill ALS Re: Lincoln

MORRILL, LOT. Autograph Letter Signed, "Lot M. Morrill", 2 pp. on one leaf, May 9, 1860, 5" x 8" (folded). Expected folds, toning, cello tape residue.

Interesting political letter from Morrill to his ally, William Fessenden, on the eve of the 1860 Republican Convention. In part, “I leave this morning for Chicago to be there in advance of the convention a day in time. / The break up in Charleston has not lessened the real danger – I had rather encounter the part intact in its diminished condition, than in fragments, floating in all directions.” The Democratic National Convention in April of 1860 in Charleston, South Carolina, was a seminal event leading to the Civil War. It had turned into a debacle, with secessionists and Unionist groups grappling for votes. No nominee had the requisite votes, so the convention was reconvened in June in Baltimore.

Morrill continues, “I am surprised at Mr. L’s independence, but he will not lead the Me. Delegation that way if he attempts it. / Let me hear from you at Chicago at Briggs Hotel.” This small Maine delegation was of importance in swinging votes to Lincoln from Seward and Cameron, and in seeing Hannibal Hamlin as Lincoln’s running mate.

Lot Myrick Morrill (1813–1883) was an American statesman who served as the 28th Governor of Maine, in the United States Senate, and as Secretary of the Treasury appointed by President Ulysses S. Grant. Morrill, as Secretary of Treasury, was devoted to hard currency rather than paper money and dedicated himself to serve the public good rather than party interests. Morrill was popularly received as Treasury Secretary by the American press and Wall Street and was known for his financial and political integrity.

William Pitt Fessenden (1806–1869) was an American politician from the U.S. state of Maine. Fessenden was a Whig (later a Republican) and member of the Fessenden political family. He served in the United States House of Representatives and Senate before becoming Secretary of the Treasury under President Abraham Lincoln during the American Civil War.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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