President Garfield Assassination: Signed Prosecution of Charles Guiteau Document

Title:
George B. Corkhill TLS Regarding the Prosecution of Charles Guiteau – Dated January 5, 1882 – U.S. Attorney During the Trial for President Garfield’s Assassin

Description:
Typed Letter Signed (TLS) by George B. Corkhill, dated January 5, 1882, on official “Office of the Attorney of the United States for the District of Columbia” stationery. The partially pre‑printed document, completed in Corkhill’s hand, measures approximately 8" x 10" and is addressed to Mr. D.C. Parey of the Post Publishing Co. in Appleton, Wisconsin. Corkhill acknowledges receipt of Parey’s suggestions regarding United States vs. Guiteau and notes that, “As the evidence is all in, your services will not be needed.” The signature “George B. Corkhill” appears boldly at the bottom in ink, beneath his printed title as United States Attorney for the District of Columbia. The letter presents light fold lines and minor age wear yet remains crisp and highly legible, with strong contrast between type and manuscript.

Historical Context:
George B. Corkhill (1838–1886) served as United States Attorney for the District of Columbia during one of the most dramatic criminal trials of the 19th century: the prosecution of Charles J. Guiteau for the assassination of President James A. Garfield. After Garfield was shot on July 2, 1881, and succumbed to his wounds in September, the ensuing trial became a national spectacle. Guiteau’s defense attempted to prove insanity, and Corkhill’s team worked to counter this in a complex and highly publicized legal battle that culminated in Guiteau’s conviction in January 1882. This letter, written in the final days of the trial, offers a rare contemporaneous glimpse into the procedural communications and legal environment surrounding the case.

In a fascinating modern parallel, Netflix’s limited series Death by Lightning dramatizes this chapter of American history, bringing renewed public attention to Garfield’s assassination and Guiteau’s trial. Premiering on November 6, 2025, the four‑episode historical drama is based on Candice Millard’s nonfiction Destiny of the Republic and stars Michael Shannon as President Garfield and Matthew Macfadyen as Charles J. Guiteau. The series explores the political, medical, and personal forces surrounding Garfield’s brief presidency, the shooting at the Baltimore & Potomac Railroad Station, and Guiteau’s descent into delusion and violence — all intertwined with the civil service reform issues of the era that contextualize Corkhill’s legal efforts. Its rich portrayals and critical acclaim have helped educate a new generation about the assassination, the trial, and the broader Gilded Age political landscape in which Corkhill operated.

Authentication & Encapsulation:

• 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 letter is not only a fine example of Corkhill’s professional correspondence but also a direct link to the legal proceedings that defined a pivotal moment in U.S. history. With the contemporary cultural resurgence of interest in the Garfield assassination through Netflix’s Death by Lightning, this artifact gains further prominence as a collectible that resonates with both history enthusiasts and viewers seeking the real story behind the dramatization. Its provenance, context, and excellent preservation make it a compelling centerpiece for any collection focused on presidential history, landmark trials, or the Gilded Age.

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.