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Lot 166: Dolley Madison Signature 1840

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Lot  166: Dolley Madison Signature 1840
<b>Autographs</b><hr><b>Dolley Madison Free Frank</b>

<b>DOLLEY MADISON, First Lady.</b>
Address Panel Free Franked, 'Free D.P. Madison,' and addressed in her hand to 'Lewis J. Gist, Esqr., Cincinnati, Ohio,' postmarked 'SEP 24 [no year, c. 1840] ORANGE, VA,' 4-5/8' x 7-1/8', Fine. Stamped red 'FREE' below franking signature. The postal designations are somewhat muted due to the paperÕs porous nature. Overall light toning and soiling; small mounting remnants on reverse.

Dolley Payne Todd, a widow with one son, married James Madison in 1794. During the Jefferson administration, she often served as hostess at the White House, continuing through her husbandÕs two terms as President. She was extremely popular, noted for her charm and vivaciousness. During the War of 1812, she refused to leave the Executive Mansion as British troops advanced on Washington until she could arrange for the removal of certain national treasures, including Gilbert StuartÕs life-size portrait of George Washington and the original Declaration of Independence.