Lot
653 
[Executive - Widows] Dolley Payne Madison, (1768-1849) Wife of James Madison, the 4th President of the U.S. Manuscript "Free D. P. Madison" free frank as widow on 1836 folded letter addressed to J. Payne Todd in New York City, red "Orange C.H. Va. Sep 17" cds with matching red "Free" handstamp, letter datelined "Montpellier Sept. 17th 1836" is written by Dolley's niece Anna Payne for her aunt to Dolley's son concerning estate matters; letter has been silked for preservation, Very Fine, ASCC $750, ex-Richard Graham Collection. Estimate $400 - 600.
James Madison died at Montpelier on June 28, 1836. This letter was written only 45 days after his passing, and Dolley remained at Montpelier for a year. One of her nieces, Anna Payne, came to live with her, and her son Todd also came for a lengthy stay. During this time, Dolley Madison organized and copied her husband's papers. Congress authorized $55,000 as payment for editing and publishing seven volumes of the Madison papers, including his unique notes on the 1787 convention.
Realized: $450