John Henry Brown was a painter of portrait miniatures, living and working in Philadelphia. He had met Lincoln in August of 1860 when he was commissioned to paint Lincoln’s portrait for a supporter, but although Brown liked Lincoln personally, he did not agree with Republican policies.
Transcription:
At Mr Buckleys childrens picture.
Election Day for President of the United States. The Republicans are confidant of success. They are united + well organized. The Democracy are distracted + broken, having two candidates Messrs Douglass + Breckenridge. There is also a “Union” ticket in the field, the candidate Mr. Bell. Thus, the opposition to Republicanism is in three divisions. The ticket are as follows, Rep: Lincoln + Hamlin, “Union” Bell + Everett, Dem: Douglass + Johnson, Dem: Breckenridge and Lane. The Democrats are as much opposed to each other as they are to the Republicans. I have a high personal regard and affection for Mr. Lincoln, but being opposed to him in principle, will cast my ballot for Breckenridge +Lane, regarding them as the only true representatives of the equality of all the states. The Republicans have no ticket in the southern states. They could not have, as the fundamental principle of their party is opposition to the further extension of slavery.
Citation: John Henry Brown (1818-1891), autograph journal/account book. Philadelphia, 1844-1890. AMs 574/14.1