144. [Lincoln, Abraham]. Stevenson, John Dunlap. Extraordinary autograph military letter signed (“J.D. Stevenson”), 1 page (7.5 x 9.5 in; 191 x 241 mm.), on “Headquarters First Brigade, Third Division, Department of West Virginia, Martinsburg, Va.” letterhead, 24 April 1865. Written by Union General John Dunlap Stevenson to Major John Townsend Danielenson.

Abraham Lincoln assassin-related letter “…the assassin of the President will attempt to escape disguised...in woman’s clothing.”

This remarkable letter reads in full: The following Telegram has been received at these Hdqters: Harpers Ferry Va., April 23, 1865. 9:15 AM, To Colonel Cook. Notify all subordinate Commanders along line of railroad, that there is reason to believe, that the assassin of the President will attempt to escape disguised through the lines along the B. & O. R.R. Examine critically all persons who attempt to pass the lines. Look out for a disguise in woman’s clothing. Signed “J. S. Stevenson Brig. Genl”. Also signed “C.S. Ilsley” [Charles Stillman Ilsely].

The date this letter was dispatched, John Wilkes Booth was hiding at the Garrett Farm just south of Port Royal, Virginia. While the authorities had some leads Booth and his accomplice, David Herold, still eluded capture. The hope of the government was that Booth had not yet left the Washington D.C. and greater Virginia area, and that he would soon be captured. The pursuing Union soldiers were guarding not only the area roads and bridges, but also carefully searching railroad lines as a possible route of escape for Booth. Of particular interest is the fact that the authorities thought that Booth might be dressed in woman’s clothing to elude capture, just as was related to the capture of Confederate President Jefferson Davis. A fine letter directly involving the efforts to capture John Wilkes Booth just ten days after his assassination of President Lincoln.
$4,000 - $6,000