Wood, Worked

Object Name:

Wood, Worked

Object ID:

1995.570

Description:

Fragment of wood from George Washington's coffin, along with supporting letters, in oak frame, 2'x1'. Wood fragment is approximately 3/4" x 1". Typed letter, dated June 13, 1895, in frame with wood fragment: "Hon. Henry M. Baker. My Dear Sir: I have the pleasure of presenting to you a piece of the wooden coffin in which the leaden case containing the remains of GENERAL GEORGE WASHINGTON was enclosed. You will remember that in October 1837 his remains were placed in a marble sarcophagus and re-entombed where they now repose. At that time by the direction of Mr. John Augustine Washington the old family servant, West Ford, who was given his freedom by General Washington's will, preserved the coffin.... He instructed West Ford to give me a piece of the wooden coffin and I received it from him. The piece I give you is a part of the coffin received by me from West Ford. I presented another piece to the Patent Office in 1843 which remained in its Museum until destroyed by fire. I hope this relic of George Washington may be prized by you and that you will safely preserve it. Very respectfully, John Martin". Handwritten note, dated October 9, 1895, in frame with wood fragment: "This is to certify that the identified piece of Washington's coffin presented to me by Mr. John Martin is enclosed herewith and as framed is presented by me to the New Hampshire Historical Society. Henry M. Baker. Bow, N.H.".

Material:

Wood
Paper

Dimensions:

H-24 L-12 inches

Subjects:

Washington, George