TLS signed “Thomas A. Edison,” one page, 8.25 x 11, From the Laboratory of Thomas A. Edison letterhead, June 16, 1891. Letter to A. Verne, Esq., Cie. Continentale Edison in Paris, France, stamped at the top, “Phonograph Dictation.” In full: “This will serve to introduce Mr. J. C. Henderson, Engineer-in-Chief of the Edison General Electric Company, who goes abroad for a few weeks’ rest. Mr. Henderson will be very much interested in anything you can show him in connection with electric lighting or kindred interests in Paris, and I will appreciate very highly any courtesies you may extend to him.” In fine condition, with intersecting folds, one through a single letter of signature. Accompanied by the original transmittal envelope. Edison’s umbrella signature is bold and prominent.
Edison’s most famous invention was electric lighting, and improving upon that the creation was the major reason for Henderson’s visit to the French company. Edison’s message shone clear: that the director of his Compagnie Continentale Edison share with the visiting engineer-in-chief anything “in connection with electric lighting or kindred interests.” As chief engineer, Henderson worked closely with Edison from the beginning stage of the electric light—an invention that revolutionized human existence—and he would relish the opportunity to learn more about the City of Light. Of course, there would be few better places to examine the practical application of the electric light than Paris, a city that earned its nickname following the illumination of the Champs De Elysees with gas lamps in 1828...the first European city to do so. Interestingly, Edison embraced his two greatest inventions here as he employed a “Phonograph Dictation” of this message onto a cylinder, which was then played by a typist. Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.
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