Envelope
1860

Lincoln’s nomination for the Presidency on May 18, 1860, brought hundreds of letters to his home from well-wishers, office seekers, and advisors. He hired John Nicolay and John Hay to serve as his secretaries to respond to the letters. On this envelope sent from Charleston, IL, John Nicolay wrote a note that it “Needs no answer."

Paper. H 8.5 x W 13.8 cm
Lincoln Home National Historic Site, LIHO 9458