Lincoln, Abraham (1809-1865) to L. J. Cist
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC00749 Author/Creator: Lincoln, Abraham (1809-1865) Place Written: Washington, D.C. Type: Autograph letter signed Date: 16 May 1864 Pagination: 1 p. ; 20.1 x 12.5 cm. Order a Copy
Replies to a letter initially directed to Representative Henry Taylor Blow of Missouri requesting Lincoln's autograph for the benefit of the Mississippi Valley Sanitary Fair. In response, President Lincoln writes "I am glad to give it, in the hope that it may contribute, in some small degree at least, to the relief and comfort of our brave soldiers."
The United States Sanitary Commission, formed in 1861, unified the efforts of benevolent societies and the Federal Government in acquiring donations and provisions for the Union Army. Various fairs were held across the United States during the course of the Civil War to raise funds for the Commission.
Executive Mansion,
Washington, May 16. 1864
L. J. Cist,
Chairman &c.
Dear Sir
A letter of yours to Hon. Mr. Blow, requesting an autograph note of mine for the benefit of the Mississippi Valley Sanitary Fair, has been laid before me. I am glad to give it, in the hope that it may contribute, in some small degree at least, to the relief and comfort of our brave soldiers.
Yours truly
A. Lincoln
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