Even though this fantastic pass was issued in December 1859, it is ripe with Civil War history. In 1859--the year of this pass was issued--none other than future president Abraham Lincoln was lawyer for this railroad. Lincoln and Stephen Douglas had both lobbied for the railroad's construction in 1851. The pass is signed by George B. McClellan. During the Civil War, McClellan served as a Union General. However, he was cautious or hesitant to attack with full force, leading to significant defeats. In 1862, McClellan's Peninsula Campaign unraveled after the Seven Days Battles. He also failed to decisively defeat Robert E. Leis Confederate Army at the Battle of Antietam. Frustrated by McClellan, President Lincoln removed him from command in 1862. McClellan later mounted a failed presidential bid against Lincoln in 1864. He was later elected as the governor of New Jersey. 2 x 3.25" Signed by an agent for the railroad on the reverse (illegible). Hole punched, but not through the McClellan autograph.Date: 1859Country (if not USA): State: IllinoisCity: ChicagoProvenance: