The Lincoln Family Bureau

An 1850s Empire mahogany chest of drawers with strong potential connection to Robert Todd Lincoln and his daughter, Mary Lincoln Isham.

Provenance Summary

Pre-1926

Believed to have been gifted by Robert Todd Lincoln to his daughter, Mary Lincoln Isham (Mamie).

1926

Following Robert Todd Lincoln’s death, an inventory recorded a “Bureau and mirror” as the personal property of Mary Lincoln Isham, noted as an “M.I. gift.”

Until 1975

The piece remained in the possession of Mary Lincoln Beckwith at Hildene in Manchester, Vermont.

1975 – Mary Lincoln Beckwith Estate

A detailed appraisal listed a “mahogany chest of drawers missing its mirror” among the property bequeathed to The Christian Science Board of Directors.

2012 / 2013

Acquired from the Greg Hoover estate sale through Mountaineer Auctions in Clendenin, West Virginia.

Key Historical Documents

1926 Inventory

Robert Todd Lincoln Estate

"Bureau and mirror" recorded as personal property of Mary Lincoln Isham ("M.I. gift").

1975 Appraisal

Mary Lincoln Beckwith Estate

"Mahogany chest of drawers missing its mirror" listed among items bequeathed to the Christian Science Church.

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