An exceptional Cabinet Card and CDV album tied to the family of Benjamin Franklin "Bluff" Wade, a significant political figure in U.S. history. Wade was a staunch abolitionist who doubted the sincerity and strength of Lincoln’s anti-slavery stance. He spoke negatively about Lincoln’s delay in appointing Black soldiers to the army.

Wade, as president pro tempore of the Senate during the 1868 impeachment trial of President Andrew Johnson, was next in line for the presidency. Had Johnson been removed from office, Wade would have become acting president for the remaining nine months of the term.

The album is a rich historical artifact featuring numerous well-preserved portraits, many of which are identified, offering a glimpse into the lives of Wade's family and contemporaries. The collection includes a mix of cabinet cards and CDVs, showcasing the photographic artistry of the time. Originating from Indiana, the portraits display period fashion and dignified expressions, making this a significant genealogical and historical resource.

The album itself is in good condition, with its original binding and ornate embossed cover design, complete with a functioning brass clasp. A highlight for collectors and historians alike, this piece provides a tangible connection to one of the most pivotal moments in U.S. political history.