Typed Note Signed Unsigned Print by Thompson James (1 results)

"Big Jim" was an attorney and Republican politician and served as Illinois' longest-serving governor, a remarkable four terms and fourteen years (1977-91). TNS, 1p, 6" X 8½", Springfield, IL, 20 May 1876. Addressed to Ralph Newman (1912-98, founder of Chicago's noted Abraham Lincoln Book Shop). Near fine. Single faint horizontal fold. On embossed "Executive Mansion" letterhead, Thompson thanks this friend for attending his birthday party and extravagant present: "I was so happy you could join me in celebrating my 51st. I had a great time and hope you enjoyed yourself as much as I did. Thank you for the one dollar, I will certainly treasure it." Signed simply "Jim" in blue fineline. Accompanied by a lovely fine 8½" X 11" print by Lloyd Ostendorf (1921-2000), the Dayton, Ohio commercial artist who became the foremost artist interpreter of Abraham Lincoln and his circle, illustrating every facet of Lincoln's life in various media over several decades. This print published in 1977 depicts a smiling Thompson seated at a desk signing a document, with Lincoln standing behind him gazing over his shoulder. Caption at bottom reads, "Gov. James R. Thompson Signs 140th Anniversary Proclamation Commemorating Abraham Lincoln and the Long Nine Banquet at Athens, Ill., Aug. 3, 1837.".