Lincoln, Abraham and Four of His Cabinet Members. Autograph endorsement signed ("A. Lincoln") as President, on the verso of an autograph letter signed by Secretary of War Simon Cameron, 1p, 6¾ x 4½", War Dept., Washington, May 17, 1861, putting forward the name of Henry Pangborn for the position of paymaster of the Navy. Lincoln wrote on page 4 of the bifolium, "Let it be done when it can consistently. A. Lincoln, May 20, 1861." Secretary of State William H. Seward wrote, "I concur," as did Postmaster General Montgomery. On page 3, Secretary of the Interior Caleb Smith wrote, "I concur in the recommendation of Mr. Pangborn," and F.W. Seward (William's son), who was Asst. Secretary of State, wrote, " I heartily concur in the foregoing recommendation." Cameron's letter is very faded, the paper is toned and soiled, with numerous folds, but Lincoln's endorsement is bold and the others are easily read.
Young Pangborn, who was the son of a prominent Republican newspaper editor, was assigned as Naval Paymaster to the Steamer Rhode Island and later to the Sloop Constitution and the USS Constellation; the latter ship was engaged in thwarting Confederate cruisers and commerce raiders in European waters, then in capturing Rebel privateers, cruisers and blockade runners in waters closer to home. He died just after the war, at the young age of 27.
Estimated Value $3,000 - 5,000.
The Arden Family Holdings of Beverly Hills.
U.S. Presidents
