Self-educated African-American botanist (circa 1864–1943) who became a leading expert in agricultural science, most notably relating to the cultivation and practical uses of the peanut. ALS signed “G. W. Carver,” three pages on two sheets, 8.5 x 11, Tuskegee Normal and Industrial Institute letterhead, July 17, 1932. A letter of encouragement to a student, Timothy Davis, including much botanical content. In part: “My dear, handsome boy has one of the most pleasing and interesting minds that I have come in contact with, capable of the greatest depth and breadth of thought. I have had persons out with me collecting who claimed to be mycologists, and they did not do any better than you. I did not say anything, but there was a little by the car, just a few feet from it just covered with that black smut, which much to my astonishment you discovered, it is a very very complex think called Diatripe, your keenness of vision pleases me so much, in fact my boy pleases me from every angle…. I am praying that we may be thrown together very often, we will begin your Botanical and Mycological work in earnest as soon as you get your microscope…. I thought of you much when I found a plum tree, quite a large one literally brown with a rust, and a pear tree ‘dieing’ from a bacteriological trouble, hope to examine them both tomorrow…. Dear, I forgot to say, that you should not drink the herb tea that I gave you longer than 9 days…. Your great spirit and God given talents have added so much to my life.” In fine condition, with light scattered soiling and file holes to each page touching a few words. LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
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