Description
A collection of family correspondence
related to Leonard Swett, Illinois lawyer and advisor to President Abraham
Lincoln.
Background
Leonard Swett (1825-1889) was born in Maine and educated at Waterville College; he married
Laura R. Quigg on July 20, 1854 and their son, Leonard Herbert Swett, was born in 1859.
Leonard Swett was an active worker in Illinois politics and elected to the state legislature
in 1858; he was also a friend and advisor of Abraham Lincoln. Swett was employed in legal
work in government cases, the best known being the California quick-silver litigation in
1863. In 1865 Swett moved to Chicago, where he became a prominent civil and criminal lawyer.
After the death of his first wife, Swett married his law office manager, Marie A. H. Decker
on July 14, 1887; Swett died in Chicago on June 8, 1889.
Extent
2.67 Linear Feet
(4 boxes)
Restrictions
The Huntington Library does not require that researchers request permission to quote from
or publish images of this material, nor does it charge fees for such activities. The
responsibility for identifying the copyright holder, if there is one, and obtaining
necessary permissions rests with the researcher.
Availability
Open for use by qualified researchers and by appointment. Please contact Reader Services at
the Huntington Library for more information.