Lincoln, Abraham (1809-1865) [Lincoln endorsement on a letter from Samuel Holloway]
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Gilder Lehrman Collection #: GLC04484 Author/Creator: Lincoln, Abraham (1809-1865) Place Written: Washington, D.C. Type: Autograph endorsement signed Date: 19 September 1864 Pagination: 4 p. : docket ; 32.1 x 20.2 cm. Order a Copy
Letter written by Samuel Holloway to Abraham Lincoln requesting release of his son George W. Holloway, a prisoner of war. States that his son was induced to join the Confederate Army without his knowledge. He is now in the hospital and will not recover unless released. Conveys that his son repents his mistake and is ready to swear allegiance to the Union. Begs Lincoln to save his boy's life, offers to pay bond money, and also offers to be taken as a hostage in his son's place. Certification on third page dated 20 September 1864 states that George W. Holloway is between 16 and 17 years old. Lincoln's endorsement dated 20 September 1864, on the fourth page states, "Let this boy take the Oath of Dec. 8. 1863. and be discharged."
[Samuel Holloway's letter:]
Washington 19 Sept 1864
To His Excellency
Abraham Lincoln,
President of the United States.
Mr. President:
My son, George W. Holloway, a youth of 15 years, in the midst of the rebel excitement in Kentucky was hurried off and induced to join the rebel army, without my knowledge or consent. He is now a prisoner of war at Camp Douglass [sic], Illinois and is lying at the point of death.
His physicians certify that unless he be removed from the Hospital and receive a Mother's care and nursing, he cannot possibly recover. He has long since repented of his youthful folly and is now willing and anxious to take the Oath of Allegiance to the Union. I have applied to the commissory for the Exchange of Prisoners for his release, but I have been told, that under a standing order, he cannot be released; that there is no power on Earth except yours that can do it; but that you can. The papers are all in the hands of Col. Hoffman. [2]
Now, Mr. President, I want, if possible, to save the life of my Boy. If he must die, I want him to die at home, in the arms of his family, a loyal citizen under the old Flag, once more, and not as a Rebel prisoner. If I can only save his life, (and there is no other way), then, I am willing that he shall return to prison and be disposed of according to law. For that purpose, I am willing to give Bond in all that I am worth in the world, Say, Ten Thousand dollars ($10.000) for his return to prison, whenever demanded, if alive at the time. In making this offer I do all that a loyal father can. If more be required, I am willing to take his place, and to remain as a hostage for his return, if allowed. For God's sake, Mr. President, be not less merciful than the father of the Prodigal Son. Save the life of my erring Boy; and as the Only Earthly reward I can offer you, Accept the Everlasting gratitude of your friend & fellow citizen.
Samuel Holloway
[3] [Certification of Judge written on blank leaf]:
District of Columbia
Washington City
Before me, Nicholas Callan, a Justice of the Peace in and for said city, personally appeared, Samuel Holloway, of Jerramine County, Kentucky, who being duly sworn according to law, deposes and says, That his son George W. Holloway named in the foregoing petition, is now between sixteen and seventeen years of age, according to the best of his knowledge & belief. And further deponent saith not [?]
Sworn & subscribed before
me this 20th day of Sept. Samuel Holloway
1864. N. Callan J Peace
[4][Lincoln's endorsement:]
Let this boy take the Oath of Dec. 8. 1863. and be discharged.
A. Lincoln
Sep. 20. 1864.
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