Title:
William H. Seward LS – August 2, 1850 – Introduces His Nephew to U.S. Diplomat at The Hague – Signed "Seward" 2x! - Beckett Certified

Description:
One-page Letter Signed (LS) by William H. Seward, dated August 2, 1850, penned in rich brown ink on lightly toned cream paper, approximately 7.75" x 9.75" in size. Seward addresses the letter from Washington, D.C., and writes to His Excellency Mr. Folsom, U.S. Minister at The Hague. Neatly signed at the close “William H. Seward.” The letter introduces Seward’s nephew, Clarence A. Seward, who was planning to visit Europe.

The letter reads in full:

Washington August 2, 1850
My dear Sir,
I beg leave to present to you, my nephew, Mr. Clarence A. Seward, who will call upon you in the course of his tour in Europe.
I have the honor to be
With great respect
Your obedient servant
William H. Seward

His Excellency
Mr. Folsom
Minister at the Hague

The letter exhibits original mailing folds, minor spots of toning, and is in overall very fine condition, with the handwriting and signature remaining bold and clear. The verso bears Seward’s signature and date inscription again: “W. H. Seward / Aug 2, 1850” in his hand.

Historical Context:
William H. Seward (1801–1872) was a prominent American statesman, serving as Governor of New York, U.S. Senator, and ultimately as Secretary of State under Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson. He was a powerful voice against slavery and an instrumental figure in the Union war effort. Though best remembered for his role in the purchase of Alaska (mockingly dubbed "Seward's Folly"), he was a major figure in mid-19th century American politics.

This letter was written during Seward’s first year as a U.S. Senator, at a time when the nation was embroiled in heated debates over slavery, statehood, and sectional tensions that would eventually lead to the Civil War. The recipient, Charles W. Folsom, served as U.S. Consul and Chargé d'affaires at The Hague. Clarence A. Seward, the nephew referenced in this letter, would later become an attorney and serve as acting Mayor of New York City during the Draft Riots of 1863.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
Authenticated by Beckett Authentication Services (BAS).

• Certification Number: A24702

• Letter of Authenticity (LOA) included, dated January 9, 2020

• The letter is not encapsulated but includes the full BAS LOA with image and matching certification.

• Additional Documentation & Provenance: 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 beautifully preserved ALS from William H. Seward offers collectors an exceptional pre-Civil War artifact from one of the most influential statesmen of the 19th century. With strong political associations, personal familial references, and a diplomatic destination, this letter highlights Seward’s prominent role in American and international relations during a formative period in U.S. history. A compelling and historical addition to any serious collection of American political autographs.

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.