Raynor HCA 2014-01
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 1/30/2014
Exceedingly rare menu from the Tremont House Hotel in Chicago, Il., dated May, 2, 1865. On May 2 Lincoln's body was in Chicago for one of the thirteen funeral processions held in cities from Washington, D.C. to Springfield, Il. The menu, adorned with black borders, states the lunch to be served, the wine menu, along with train schedules and the times for church services. It also has, in larger block letters printed on the interior, "A NATION IN TEARS". The Tremont Hotel had a very famous past. It served as the headquarters for the Illinois Republican Party during the 1860 Republican National Convention that nominated Lincoln. Both Abraham Lincoln and Stephen Douglas started their famous Senatorial campaign from the balcony of the hotel. And, in 1861, Stephen Douglas died at the hotel. The piece measures 9 ¼" x 11 7/8" opened. It has a small piece missing from the center bottom edge, and some light wear. Overall fine. One can imagine mourners taking a break from the funeral procession, the viewing of Lincoln's body, and the unimaginable pain from the loss of the President, to just sitting down at the Tremont to eat, drink, and reflect. A rare Lincoln mourning piece that we have never encountered.
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