Updated on March 6: This has been sold.
Framed Photograph of Ulysses S. Grant and His Family at Grant Cottage
We spoke with the staff at the U.S. Grant Cottage State Historic site about this photograph.
Based on that discussion, our understanding is that this photograph was taken on the porch of the cottage at Mount McGregor, New York, on June 19, 1885, just three days after his arrival at the cottage.
Grant remained there until his death from throat cancer on July 23, 1885, spending his final days completing his memoirs.
A note on the back of the photograph says, " . . . this picture taken 3 days before his death . . ." We believe that the date from the staff is the correct date.
In the photograph:
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Back Row (left to right): Ida (Fred's wife), Fred Grant, Elizabeth (Jesse's wife), Nellie Grant, U.S. Grant Jr.
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Middle Row (left to right): Julia Grant (Fred & Ida's daughter), Julia Grant (U.S. Grant's wife), U.S. Grant
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Front Row (left to right): U.S. Grant III (Fred & Ida's son), Nellie (Jesse & Elizabeth's daughter)
The photographic firm listed on the back of the image, William H. Baker of Saratoga Springs, is likely responsible for this photograph. (Several of Baker's CDV photos are here.)
Multiple photographers, including John Gilman of Canajoharie and Record & Epler of Saratoga, were present on the mountain during Grant’s stay. (John Gilman took the last photo of Grant, the one we often see with Grant, seated, wearing a top hat and reading the newspaper.)
We will include a copy of the back of the photo on the back of the framed piece.
Note that this is the original photograph, not a later reproduction.
Size of frame: 9.25" x 11.25"
Shipping: $20. Please allow one week for delivery.
Historical Background:
Ulysses S. Grant, who led the Union Army to victory in the Civil War and later served as the 18th President of the United States, spent his final days battling throat cancer. This photograph was likely taken at his home in Mount McGregor, New York, where he completed his memoirs just days before his passing.
The Grant Revealed website has an excellent piece detailing how Grant spent his final days.
