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Lot #218
Frederick Douglass

A significant letter from one of the most important figures in the abolitionist movement

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Description

A significant letter from one of the most important figures in the abolitionist movement

Incredible-content TLS, one page, 7 x 10, July 25, 1889. Douglass praises the Young Churchman Company for an unknown story, in part: “[The story] is a timely and truthful story, and may awaken sympathy for a class whose color is visited upon it, as a crime is upon other people. In view of the unreasoning and inflexible character of the popular prejudice against any one in whose veins there is a trace of African blood, I cannot but applaud your courage and independence in daring to publish a story which so boldly calls this prejudice in question.” At the bottom, Douglass writes a postscript to Jennie Marsh Parker: “Among all your many obedient friends, I am sure you have not one more responsive than I am to all your commands—I have sent the above to the Young Churchman Co. F. Douglass.” The letter is affixed by its edges to a slightly larger mat and mount. In very good condition, with intersecting folds, one fold affecting a single letter of each signature, ink notation above postscript, mounting remnants to edges, and the typed text extremely light and quite difficult to read. Douglass and Parker had been friends for more than 40 years when the abolitionist and suffragist sent her this letter. At the time, Parker was a writer who contributed stories to the Young Churchman newspaper, and Douglass was obviously moved by her words, applauding her for publishing a story questioning “the popular prejudice against any one in whose veins there is a trace of African blood.” Pre-certified John Reznikoff/PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: October Monthly
  • Dates: #393 - Ended October 17, 2012





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