John Tyler Free Frank on ALS by Julia Tyler and Her Sister Margaret

An autograph letter signed by Julia Tyler with a free franked envelope by her husband, John Tyler. 2pp of a bifolium, measuring 7.75" x 9.75". Sherwood Forest Plantation, Virginia, dated December 25, n.y. [ca. 1848-1857]. Julia Tyler writes to her mother at the end of a letter written by her sister, Margaret Gardiner Beeckman, starting at the bottom half of the second page. As the letter is signed by Margaret as "MGB", it is assumed that it dates after her marriage to John Beekman in 1848. The second half, signed "Julia", concerns her upcoming Christmas party plans. On the address page, John Tyler has free franked the letter, signing "J. Tyler". Below his signature is stamped "FREE" in blue ink. The letter has flattened folds and uneven toning. Faint staining overall. Very good overall with bold signatures.

Julia's letter in part:
"Merry Christmas, my dear Mama & David. I shall pass a very busy one - on my head about the party I give to Mrs. [illegible] Wednesday evening. We send to Richmond for two men for the music as there will be dancing. I wish you & David were here just to see the fun. Mrs. [illegible] & her husband pass this night with us and perhaps we shall have to give lodging to others. I could say a great deal to you if I only had the time to write…"

John Tyler became president following the death of his running mate 9th U.S. President William Henry Harrison (1773-1841). He had married Alexander Gardiner’s younger sister, Julia (1820-1889) in June 1844, and he and his 24-year-old bride returned to the White House after their secret marriage in New York. Julia Tyler was installed as “Lady Presidenteress” for less than one year, but she took advantage of her position by instituting new executive rules and customs. The Tylers retreated to their eastern Virginian plantation Sherwood Forest after his presidential term ended.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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