Celebrated American performer (1860–1926) whose legendary prowess as a markswoman earned her worldwide renown. At the tender age of fifteen, she bested vaudeville marksman Frank E. Butler in a shooting match; the two were later married and toured together as star attractions in Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show. She never failed to delight her audiences. Among other astounding sharpshooting feats, Oakley would, from thirty paces, split a playing card held edge-on; on one occasion, performing in Berlin, she shot a cigarette from the lips of Kaiser Wilhelm II. Scarce ALS, two pages, lightly-lined, 6 x 9.25, New Briggs Hotel letterhead, January 13, 1909. Oakley sends thanks to George McCarty, who later became president of the American Trapshooting Association. In full: “I know I am perfectly terrible for neglecting to write and thank you for the beautiful cup & the pretty photo of dear little Virginia. I surely can appreciate them more than I can tell you. I do hope to see you at Pinehurst. Then we can eat those fine grape fruit for our breakfast, And just have a good old fashioned visit then you can explain why Mr. McCarty always wins when his little wife is with him. I gave my first shoot yesterday. Had a fine day & about 1500 people, best in Washington. Pouring rain now & it is 1130 am. Hope it will clear up. Thanking you again. And with love and every good wish.” Nicely signed at the bottom of the second page, “Annie Oakley.” Oakley also adds, “For Virginia,” along the top of the second page. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope, addressed in Oakley’s hand, adding her return address, “160 Broad St., Newark, N. J.” Letter and envelope are cloth gilt-matted by Gallery of History along with a photo of Oakley, a plaque bearing a transcript of the letter and a biographical plaque, to an overall size of 31.5 x 19. In fine condition, with a few scattered light spots and trivial tear to left edge of second page. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
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