Ink signature, measures 1.5 x 5”, clean and bold --“A. Lincoln”.

This Lincoln signature is one of a number entered in a small leather-bound delivery book kept by US Senate messenger Frank A. Colbath, between March 6 - March 11, 1865. The book measures 6.5 x 4”, with marbled eps, and gilt edged lined, unnumbered pages. Exhibits light wear at the extremities, else VG. The initial entry reads: “Frank A. Colbath/ Washington/ DC/ Commenced/ March 6^th 1865/ For the U.S. Senate/ Capitol/ Delivered the / Following Messages/ to”.

Eight pages follow, with the list of the persons to whom the messages are directed in column on the left; and the list of persons who signed receipt for messages on the right. Senate messages for “President Lincoln” were sent on March 6, 8, 9, with three sent on the 11^th. Lincoln secretary John Hay signed for the March 6^th message, the President himself signed for March 8^th, and Assistant Secretary E.D. Neill signed for the rest. Among other messages were those delivered to Secretary of War Stanton, Secretary of Treasury Hugh McCullough, and Secretary of Navy Gideon Welles; Welles signing for one of his, and prominent War Department clerk Charles F. Benjamin signing for one of Stanton’s.

A highly unique signature grouping, with Lincoln signing receipt for a Senate message, and presidential secretaries John Hay and E.D. Neil signing for him. All occurring during the concluding month of the war just prior to Lincoln’s assassination. Invites further research. Superb Lincoln collectible.  [JP]

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