Four are 1 page, one is 1½ pages, on letterhead of the House of Representatives, approx. 23x13 cm. or smaller. Each signed Wm. McKinley Jr. Each with cover addressed to Mrs. Ida McKinley, Canton, Ohio, in William McKinley’s hand.
Letters from a devoted husband and future President of the United States to his young wife, who had remained at their home in Canton, Ohio when William McKinley had returned to his congressional duties in Washington. Ida Saxton McKinley (1843-1907) was of fragile health, and suffered from epilepsy. She had lost two daughters, Katherine at age 3½ in 1875, and Ida at a little over four months in 1873, causing further depression. William was devoted to her and very protective, and they were rarely separated. When they were, he remained attentive, as indicated by the daily, sometimes twice daily letters he sent. On March 16th, “My precious wife: Back again safely and in my seat in the House, everything looking naturally except No. 2 at the Ebbitt which has a deserted look in your absence. I slept well last night and am feeling well today. I hope you are very well. Many inquiries were made about you by the ladies and general disappointment expressed that you did not return with me… Yours aff[ectionatel]y, Wm. McKinley Jr.” * March 17th, “My own precious darling, It is now nearly ten o’clock. I have dispatched over forty letters today & evening and have just returned from the meeting of the congressional committee. James held the fort while I was about. I got a Harper’s Weekly & he says he mailed it to you tonight… You can’t imagine how desolate it is here without you, if I was not actually overwhelmed with work, it would be intolerable…” * March 19th, “…A rainy, disagreeable morning. Have had my breakfast and it is now 9 O.C... I am very well. I go to the President’s this morning the first time since my return, then I have a Committee meeting… Much love yours lovingly, Wm. McKinley Jr.” (the signature is a bit smeared.) * Later on March 19th, “…In the House again, and my mind turns to her I love above all others. Miss Poor is very well, Mrs. Bacon has not been very well, Mr. Howells is recovering… I had a nice time at Blaine’s, they all inquired about you & Mrs. B says you must come to her receptions after you return. The President sends his love to you…” * March 21, “My precious wife: Sunday morning bright & beautiful and my thoughts fly to Canton & to her I love… Mrs. Austin of Cleveland and Miss Cook are at the White House… I hope to be at home one week from tonight. It will not be long & yet it will be very long…”