Description:

Benjamin Harrison
Washington, DC, November 14, 1892
Benjamin Harrison ALS on Death of Wife - Could Not "have stood the strains of a reelection"
ALS

An autographed letter from then-President Benjamin Harrison sent a little over a week after the election of 1892, signed at conclusion as "Benj. Harrison". 2pp on black-bordered Executive Mansion stationery, 4.5" x 7", Washington, D.C., November 14, 1892. Addressed to New York Republican Chairman Cornelius Bliss, Harrison remarks on the results of the recent election and the loss of his wife. Exhibits general age toning and light wear to outside border. Else, near fine with fantastic contents!

Reading in full:
"Thank you for your kind letter. I know how hard & in many respects how distasteful to you the work you have done has been, and that only your personal friendship could have induced you to undertake it. The result is more surprising to the victors than to me.
For me there is no sting in it- indeed after the heavy blow of the death of my wife dealt me. I do not think I would have stood the strains a reelection would have brought. After a summer's rest I must find some work & hope to see you often and to enjoy my real friends more than has been possible since I have been here."

Despite some inter-party opposition to his renomination, the incumbent Harrison nonetheless became the Republican Party's presidential candidate that June. The year before in 1891, First Lady Caroline Harrison was diagnosed with tuberculosis and, by 1892, her condition became terminal. Out of respect for her fragile health, therefore, both her husband and his opponent, Grover Cleveland, limited their campaign activity leading up to the election. Caroline passed away on October 25, 1892, just two weeks before her husband's defeat. Her duties as first lady were taken over by their daughter, Mary Scott McKee, for the remainder of the term.

Cornelius Newton Bliss (1833-1911) was an American merchant, politician and art collector who served as Secretary of the Interior during the McKinley administration, and as Treasurer of the Republican National Convention in four successive campaigns.

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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  • Dimensions: 4.5" x 7"
  • Medium: ALS

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