Extraordinary 1860 Presidential Campaign Poll Book “Pre-Lincoln” Election Republican Imprint

Description

Extraordinary 1860 Presidential Campaign Poll Book “Pre-Lincoln” Election Republican Imprint

 

An exceptionally rare and historically significant poll book produced for the pivotal Presidential Election of 1860—issued during the height of the campaign, before Abraham Lincoln’s victory secured the office and altered the course of the nation. Printed in Albany by Weed, Parsons & Co., this striking green-covered example boldly proclaims the Republican rallying cry: “Free Speech, Free Soil and Free Men” and “Freedom is National! Slavery is Sectional!”—among the most iconic political slogans of the era.

 

Designed for use at the local level, the book contains structured columns for recording voters by school district, with printed party designations including “Republican,” “Douglas,” “Breckinridge,” and “Doubtful,” offering a fascinating and tangible glimpse into the fractured political landscape immediately preceding the Civil War. The interior retains its original format for canvassing and organizing votes, while accompanying printed content promotes Republican organization and turnout, underscoring its purpose as both a practical tool and a piece of political propaganda.

 

The survival of such ephemeral campaign material is exceedingly uncommon, particularly in this condition, with strong color, clear print, and excellent overall preservation. This piece represents a direct, unfiltered artifact from the most consequential election in American history—capturing the moment just before Lincoln’s rise and the nation’s descent into war.

 

A museum-worthy example of extraordinary rarity and historical importance, embodying the political tensions and organization of the 1860 election at the ground level.  The only such example we have encountered in 37 years of curatorial purchasing.

 

Inventory Number: POL 421