Abraham Lincoln Autograph Endorsement Signed. One page of a bifolium, 8 x 10 inches; dated August 10, 1864. President...
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Description
Abraham Lincoln Autograph Endorsement Signed. One page of a bifolium, 8 x 10 inches; dated August 10, 1864. President Lincoln adds his endorsement to the verso of a request from Congressman Charles O'Neill of Pennsylvania, asking for a furlough for Lieutenant Robert Pennock King, Jr. of the 15th U. S. Infantry.Lincoln's endorsement reads, in full: "Sec. of War, please give Lieut King the leave of absence for thirty days as requested." Signed, "A. Lincoln." Additionally endorsed by Brigadier General James Allen Hardie, "Jas A Hardie."
On the recto, O'Neill's request reads, in full:
"Dear Sir, My friend Mr. Robert P. King, a very prominent citizen of Philadelphia, desires a leave of absence for his son Lieut R. P. King of the 15th U. S. Infantry, who has just left the Hospital at Lookout Mountain, after a very severe spell of sickness and is now on light duty near that locality. Mr. King is of opinion that 30 days at home would entirely restore the health of his son. I am sure there is no gentleman in this city who has been more active in securing men for the army and I hope this favor may be granted." Signed, "Charles O'Neill."
Robert Pennock King Sr. was a leading Philadelphia printer and businessman, co‑founder of King & Baird, which became one of the city's largest printing firms. He was also deeply involved in wartime recruiting, serving as president of the Bounty Fund Commission and helping secure tens of thousands of men for Union service. His son, Robert Jr., received the furlough requested here and retired from active service on January 30, 1865.
Includes a letter of authenticity from PSA/DNA.
Condition: Lightly toned. Smoothed folds, with a few separations thereat, touching text but not Lincoln's endorsement. Small strip of tape from previous mounting adhered to top edge on verso. A few light, scattered stains.
Auction Info
2026 February 26 Historical Manuscripts Signature® Auction #6328 (go to Auction Home page)
Bidding Begins Approx.
January
26th
Monday
Auction Dates
February
26th
Thursday
Proxy Bidding Begins Approx.
32 Days
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Lot Tracking Activity: N/A
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Proxy bidding ends ten minutes prior to the session start time. Live Proxy bidding on Heritage Live now starts within 2 hours of when the auction opens for proxy bidding and continues through the live session. During the live auction event, bidding in person is encouraged, and Heritage Live includes streaming audio and often video during the event.
Signature®: Heritage Live®:After Internet bidding closes, live bidding will take place through www.HA.com/Live. Your secret maximum bid placed prior to the live event will compete against the live bids. To maximize your chances of winning, enter realistic secret maximum bids on our site. Many of our proxy bidders are successful at winning lots in these auctions, and usually below their secret maximum. You can also place last minute bids directly with us by e-mailing Bid@HA.com or calling 1-866-835-3243. (Important note: Due to software and Internet latency, live bids may not register in time, so enter realistic proxy bids.)
Signature® Floor Sessions
Proxy bidding ends ten minutes prior to the session start time. Live Proxy bidding on Heritage Live now starts within 2 hours of when the auction opens for proxy bidding and continues through the live session. During the live auction event, bidding in person is encouraged, and Heritage Live includes streaming audio and often video during the event.
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