First Lady Dolley Madison Rare Signed Note Declining Invite! PSA/DNA Auto

Title:
Dolley Madison Autograph Note Signed (ANS) — 1819 Social Declination — PSA/DNA Graded NM 7

Description:
Offered here is an elegant third-person Autograph Note Signed (ANS) by First Lady Dolley Madison, penned in 1819 and expressing polite regret for a declined social engagement. The handwritten note reads:

"Mr. & Mrs. Madison regret that a previous engagement to Mrs. Van Ness deprives them of the pleasure of accepting Mrs. Tenckle’s kind invitation."

Dated January 3, 1819, the note is written in Dolley Madison’s hand and remains in fine condition, with only light, even toning and strong brown ink. The letter is a single page, 5" x 8", docketed on the verso, and now encased in a PSA/DNA slab measuring approximately 9.5" x 13". It has been graded Near Mint 7 by PSA, with certification number 85580116 clearly visible on both sides of the encapsulation.

Historical Context:
Dolley Madison (1768–1849), wife of President James Madison, redefined the role of First Lady during her tenure from 1809 to 1817. Renowned for her charm, hospitality, and keen political instinct, she fostered bipartisan unity through her celebrated social gatherings in Washington. Even after the Madison presidency, Dolley remained a beloved public figure in the capital and continued to play a prominent role in Washington society.

The note offered here—written two years after Madison’s presidency—illustrates Dolley’s continued social stature and the formal etiquette of the era. Her social influence endured well into the 1830s, and her contributions to shaping the White House and the ceremonial role of First Lady remain foundational. Notably, she helped refurnish the White House after it was burned in 1814 and is credited with rescuing George Washington’s portrait before fleeing.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
Graded and certified by PSA/DNA, Autograph Authentication, Certification Number 85580116

• Slabbed with full viewing of recto and verso

• Grade: NM 7 (Near Mint)

• Additional Documentation & Provenance: Originally offered by renowned autograph expert Charles Hamilton in 1974. At buyer’s request, Historical Autographs Gallery will include an additional “Historical Autographs Gallery Certificate” signed by our company founder Luke Pascal at no cost.

Closing Appeal:
This graceful and refined 1819 note signed by Dolley Madison is a rare artifact of early American social and political life. With its impeccable provenance, high PSA grade, and personal connection to one of the most revered First Ladies in U.S. history, this piece is both historically significant and visually exquisite. A standout addition for collectors of early Americana, presidential families, or First Lady ephemera.

Shipping Notice:
For insurance purposes, items sold over $600 may require signature confirmation upon delivery. Higher-value items, likely over $1,500, are shipped via FedEx 2-Day with Direct Signature Confirmation. FedEx provides the most flexibility when requiring a signature, allowing you to make special delivery requests directly through their tracking system. This ensures both security and convenience for the buyer.