Businessman and politician Isidor Straus (1845–1912) was best known as the co-owner of Macy’s department store; during 1894–95, he also served a brief term in Congress. In 1871, Straus married the former Rosalie Ida Blun (1849–1912), and the couple had seven children. On the fateful night of April 14, 1912, the Strauses were en route back to the United States from Germany aboard the RMS Titanic when the ship struck an iceberg and sank less than three hours later. As the ship was being evacuated, Ida gave up a seat in a lifeboat to her maid and gave the young woman her fur coat, observing that “I won’t need this anymore.” Ida later boarded the second-to-last lifeboat, but climbed out at the last minute to be with her husband; the two were last seen in an embrace. Both of the Strauses were among the more than 1,500 who perished in the tragedy. Isidor’s body was later recovered, while Ida’s was never found. TLS, one page, 4.75 x 7.75, personal letterhead, March 14, 1902. Straus writes to William E. Dodge, Chairman of the New York Chamber of Commerce. In part: “I have been absent from the city for the last five weeks, and that accounts for my not having been able to attend the meetings of the committee. I see no reason why the informal action of those members of the committee who were present and tentatively decided upon the course outlined in your letter should not be approved of. It certainly meets entirely with my approval….” Intersecting mailing folds (vertical fold through signature) and mild wrinkling, otherwise fine condition. Auction LOA John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and R&R COA.
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