Quick Reference
- Rutherford B. Hayes
Background
Popular wisdom gives the nod to President Hayes as the introducer of the White House signed card - although some opine it was Grant who initiated the practice, in response to autograph requests, of issuing cards printed “Executive Mansion” and bearing the president’s signature… Here, however - whether it be alpha or beta - is an excellent example of this autographic innovation.
This card, dated, December 13, 1878, suggests that President Hayes might have filled requests for his autograph in his “down time”; his diary records nothing for that day, but does note that he went to bed with a bad cold on the 9th, felt better by the 11th, and was restored to health by the 14th.
This card, dated, December 13, 1878, suggests that President Hayes might have filled requests for his autograph in his “down time”; his diary records nothing for that day, but does note that he went to bed with a bad cold on the 9th, felt better by the 11th, and was restored to health by the 14th.
White House Card Signed (“R.B. Hayes”), as President, 1 page, sextodecimo, Executive Mansion, Washington, December 13, 1878.
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