A Sketch of John Quincy Adams

Sarony & Major
John Quincy Adams sketch'd by Arthur J. Stansbury Esqr. a few hours previous to the death of Mr. Adams. New York: 1848
Hand-colored lithograph
Prints & Photographs Division
Copyright deposit
LC-USZC2-2714 (29.5)
[dig. ID# cph.3b50588]

On February 21, 1848, John Quincy Adams suffered a stroke at the Capitol during his ninth successive term as congressman from Massachusetts. The sketch, upon which this print is based, was made while he lay unconscious, by congressional reporter Arthur Stansbury. Although Adams's severe, uncompromising political style had won him few friends during his presidential term (1825-1829) and tenure at the Capitol, he was widely admired for the force of his intellect and independent nature.

Arthur J. Stansbury (1781-1865)
The Original Sketch of Mr. Adams, Taken When Dying by A.J.S. in the Rotunda of the Capitol at Washington, 1848
Pencil drawing
Prints & Photographs Division (29.4)
Digital ID#s ppmsca-09903, 09904, 09905, 09906