Description:

Rutherford B. Hayes
[Washington, D.C.], n.d. but ca. 1877-1881
Rutherford B. Hayes ALS On Executive Mansion Card
ALS
A card inscribed and signed by 19th U.S. President Rutherford B. Hayes (1822-1893) as: "Gen Smith: Please give the bearer a brief but fair hearing + oblige RBH." N.d. but ca. 1877-1881. [Washington, D.C.] The cream stock card is embossed "Executive Mansion, Washington" at upper right. Isolated discoloration recto affecting two words and Hayes's middle initial, else near fine. 4.5" x 2.75." Accompanied by its original watermarked Solomon & Chapman envelope embossed "Executive Mansion" in the return address section. The envelope is engrossed in another hand as "Gen T.C.H. Smith / Introducing / Mr Straight (?)." Expected wear including gentle toning and the partial erasure of the pencil inscription. Else near fine.

President Hayes requested this favor from one of his closest unofficial presidential advisors, General Thomas C.H. Smith (1819-1897). Smith was a fellow lawyer who Hayes had befriended in Cincinnati in the 1850s. The pair were also high-ranking Civil War officers; during the conflict, Smith was attached to the 1st Ohio Cavalry Regiment, and Hayes was affiliated with the 23rd Ohio Infantry Regiment. After the Civil War, Smith remained engaged in Republican politics and veterans' issues. He worked in the Treasury Department and as a Paymaster for the U.S. Army.

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 2.75"
  • Medium: ALS

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August 7, 2024 10:00 AM EDT
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