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Lot #133
Franklin D. Roosevelt

FDR’s secretary-mistress sends his signature

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Description

FDR’s secretary-mistress sends his signature

White House card, boldly signed in fountain pen “Franklin D. Roosevelt.” Accompanied by a 1937 TLS of transmittal on White House letterhead signed “M. A. LeHand.” In 1923, FDR embarked on an affair with his young secretary, Marguerite A. “Missy” LeHand (1898–1944), that was to last for the remainder of their lives. Though it was scarcely whispered about in the press in the pre-Watergate era, the liaison was an open secret among FDR’s associates and family. Roosevelt’s son, Elliot, later wrote that FDR’s friends “accepted it as a matter of course” and that FDR himself “made no attempts to conceal his feelings about Missy.” The original mailing envelope is also included. Subtle mounting remnant to reverse of card, otherwise very fine, fresh fine condition. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title:
  • Dates: #329 - Ended January 16, 2008