LOT Old Heritage Auctions  /  2006 October Grand Format Autographs #629  / 

25059

First Lady Jane Pierce Handwritten Will.

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Autographs Start Price:500.00 USD Estimated At:2,000.00 - 5,000.00 USD
First Lady Jane Pierce Handwritten Will.
<B>First Lady Jane Pierce Autograph Last Will and Testament</B></I> Signed "<I>Jane M. Pierce</B></I>". Full page, 4.25" x 7", Concord, New Hampshire, February 3, 1846. Witnessed by Permelia W. Chase and marked with a bright red wax seal, which is still intact. This is the last will and testament of the future first lady, completely accomplished in her own hand! This is a rare find from this period, and for an already deceptively rare first lady, this is a true gem. The will reads: "<I>I, Jane M. Pierce of Concord, State of New Hampshire, being in my usual state of health, but in consideration of the uncertainty of all earthly things, do declare this to be my will in regard to the property which is invested in my name. To my beloved husband I leave it for his use and care as well as for the use (according to his father's judgment) of my dear remaining child Benjamin Pierce, until the latter shall arrive at the age of 21 years, when this property now in my name shall be equally divided, between the said Franklin & Benjamin Pierce. In the witness whereof I have hereunto set my hand and seal this day February 3rd, 1846.</B></I>" Ultimately Benjamin was killed in a train accident on the way to the inauguration of his father. This is one of only a few wills from first ladies to appear on the market; a Dolly Madison will was sold in the mid-1960s and was of extreme interest to bidders. Jane Pierce suffered hardships for most of her adult, including the loss of three children and the slow decline of her own health. This will mentions her great husband, Franklin, as well as the son she lost so soon into his life; a wonderful look into the private side of a very guarded woman. The will is in very fine condition; usual folds are present; wax seal is slightly cracked; some light staining in the upper right corner; docketing information present on the third and fourth page.
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