Title:
Incredibly Rare Civil War Era Carte de Visite Photograph of Lewis Powell (Lincoln Assassination Conspirator) with Period Ink Identification

Description:
Original 19th-century carte de visite (CDV) photograph depicting Lewis Powell (also known as Lewis Payne), one of the conspirators involved in the assassination plot against President Abraham Lincoln. The albumen print is mounted on its original card stock, featuring a clear, studio-style portrait of a young Powell in three-quarter profile.

The lower margin of the mount bears a contemporary ink inscription reading: “Lewis Powell Assassin.” The verso contains a neatly penned period inscription, likely by an early collector or owner, which reads in full:

“Abraham Lincoln
Assassination
conspirator

Hanged for his
crimes on July 7, ’65

Buried in Florida”

The photograph exhibits expected age-related wear, including surface abrasions, light staining, and edge wear, with a noticeable area of paper loss at the lower right corner of the mount. Despite these condition issues, the image remains clearly visible with strong contrast and good overall legibility of both the portrait and inscriptions.

Coincidentally, it is worth noting that University Archives sold a similar Powell CDV in February for $5,312.50. However, Powell CDV's rarely appear to market!

Historical Context:
Lewis Powell (1844–1865), often referred to as Lewis Payne, was a Confederate sympathizer and one of the key conspirators in the plot orchestrated by John Wilkes Booth to assassinate President Abraham Lincoln in April 1865. While Booth succeeded in killing Lincoln, Powell was assigned to assassinate Secretary of State William H. Seward.

On the night of April 14, 1865, Powell brutally attacked Seward in his home, severely injuring him and several members of his household. Seward ultimately survived, and Powell was later captured, tried by military tribunal, and convicted. He was executed by hanging on July 7, 1865, alongside fellow conspirators David Herold, George Atzerodt, and Mary Surratt.

Notably, the inscription on the reverse stating “Buried in Florida” reflects a common historical misconception or later-added note. Powell was initially buried at the Washington Arsenal Penitentiary; his remains were later reinterred, but not originally in Florida. Such annotations provide insight into how historical narratives and collector interpretations evolved over time.

• 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 evocative Civil War-era photograph offers a rare and tangible connection to one of the most infamous conspiracies in American history. The combination of a period image of Lewis Powell and the handwritten historical annotations enhances its interpretive and collectible value, making it a compelling artifact for collectors of Lincoln assassination material, Civil War memorabilia, and early photographic history.

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.