LEWISBURG (WEST) Va. FEB 5 (1862) circular datestamp with matching PAID 5 altered from PAID 3 on fresh mourning cover to Miss Mary Davidson, Care of J.D. Davidson, Lexington Va. Opened by reduction at right, Ex Harvey Sheppard, Wayne Farley, and Renate W. Thayer. $325.

Mary Davidson (1833-1909) never married. Her grandfather was John Davidson, a Revolutionary soldier. She was born near Timber Ridge and educated at the Anne Smith academy. When she was a girl, the family moved to Lexington, which became her home for the rest of her life.