1878 ALS to William S. Holman, Indiana Democratic Politician and Congressman, Inviting Him to Lecture.

I name the time as being on a moonlight night in order that the country people may have light on the way home…


Letter of invitation to between-terms Democratic Congressman William S. Holman of Indiana. Holman is invited to deliver a lecture on a “moonlight night” in March.

Holman served in Congress on and off for nearly 40 years and is remembered for the “Holman Rule” in the U.S. House of Representatives. The rule, revived as late as January 2017, allows amendments to appropriations bills to cut specific programs etc.

The letter was written by S. Mead, Secretary and Treasurer of the town of Patriot, Indiana. Mead presses Holman to ask the “small, democratic, and poor” town to pay a minimal honorarium. Mead appears to have consulted an almanac before issuing the invitation:

Give us the least sum of money you will do it for, and the subjects upon which you lecture. I name the time as being on a moonlight night in order that the country people may have light on the way home… Should you come we will give you a house that will impress you with what esteem you are held by our people.

An unusual and well-thought-out invitation with concern for democratic principles and ordinary people.


Description: 1878 ALS to William S. Holman, Indiana Democratic Politician and Congressman, Inviting Him to Lecture.

Patriot, Indiana, February 19, 1878. [1¼]pp. Autograph Letter Signed. 8vo. Bifolium; contemporary docketing. Vertical fold; few short closed tears; good.

[3726425]

Price: $45.00