Program/menu from a dinner on the occasion of “The Celebration at Hampton Roads of the One Hundredth Anniversary of Robert Fulton’s Successful Application of Steam to Navigation,” Jamestown Ter-Centennial Exposition, New York State Building, September 23, 1907, 8 x 10, signed and inscribed in ink on the pictorial cover, “To Mrs. Hugh Gordon Miller with the affectionate & grateful remembrances of Mark Twain, Jamestown Exposition, September 24/07 (the day after the struggle).” Clemens, well-known as a boatman in his youth, was a founding member of the Robert Fulton Monument Association. Pressures related to the planning of the event—evidently the “struggle” Clemens alludes to, including an earlier cancellation by former President Grover Cleveland—nearly led Clemens to withdraw. However, when Clemens entered the auditorium to address the crowd at Jamestown, he reportedly received a five-minute ovation of cheers and applause. Though his remarks were intended mainly as an introduction for the keynote speaker, retired Read Admiral Purnell Harrington, Clemens’s comments were the highlight of the evening. Surprised and touched, Clemens remarked, “When you appeal to my head, I don't feel it; but when you appeal to my heart, I do feel it.” A hint of mild soiling and handling wear, otherwise fine condition. Attractive and unusual! Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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