WILLIAM C.P. BRECKINRIDGE (1837-1904) was a prominent lawyer, Confederate colonel of the 9th Kentucky Cavalry and U.S. Congressman from Kentucky. His unit was designated as Jefferson Davis’s bodyguard. He was a member of the powerful Breckinridge political dynasty and known as the “Silver Tongued Orator of Bluegrass” for his influential talent at speaking.
Two-page, 6 x 9 ¼, ALS written on illustrated Hygeia Hotel Stationary, Fortress Monroe, June 23, 1892, with interesting political content on the Cleveland/Stevenson ticket.
“Have just read your speech. It is superb, eloquent & lively & will add to your reputation. Cleveland & Stevenson on the ticket...The tricksters discredited as well as defeated... No one will ever know the fight we led at Louisville...Your success is as dear to me & received as if it were that of a brother...”
Uncharacteristically for a former Confederate officer, he used his powerful oratorical skills to advocate for racial equality. He actively opposed literacy tests for African Americans and argued that all Americans should be granted full civil rights.
In 1893, his career was derailed by a massive national scandal. A woman named Madeleine Pollard sued him for breach of promise after he married another woman, stating that he had enjoyed a decade-long affair with her. The sensationalized trial captivated the American public, causing him to lose his 1894 re-election offer as congressman.
Breckinridge’s handwriting is quite challenging to decipher. The letter is in excellent condition, and the illustrated stationary is beautiful.
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