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Lot #2013
William F. ‘Buffalo Bill’ Cody

An optimistic prediction to Pawnee Bill: “New England was never big for me. But wait till we start west. I predict a big season”

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Description

An optimistic prediction to Pawnee Bill: “New England was never big for me. But wait till we start west. I predict a big season”

ALS signed “Col.,” one page, 8.5 x 11, illustrated Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show letterhead, Portsmouth, May 29, [1911]. Letter to G. W. Lillie, otherwise known as ‘Pawnee Bill.’ In part: “We had two bad towns last week. Fitchburg & Newburyport. No one ever done business in either. The week hurt us at least $2000 in Lowell—sent your bank 5100 today to take up one of my notes…We are all OK here—now. And barring accident we will be OK. New England was never big for me. But wait till we start west. I predict a big season.” Nicely archivally triple-matted and framed with a portrait of Cody to an overall size of 25.5 x 18.25. In fine condition, with intersecting folds and a subtle spot of toning to the left border. Written during the declining days of the incredibly successful empire built by Cody and his partner Lillie in 1908, but unproductive outside investments drained Cody of resources. Cody’s downward spiral continued, forcing him to finally close the show and sell his ranch near North Platte, Nebraska. Oversized. RR Auction COA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Rare Manuscript, Document & Autograph
  • Dates: #410 - Ended June 19, 2013