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Canadian explorer and ethnologist (1879–1962) best known for his expeditions to the Arctic and for his studies of the native peoples there. Interesting archive comprised of an ALS, two TLSs, and a photo signed on the reverse, as well as four unsigned photos, dated between 1918 and 1940. The ALS is signed in full, "Vilhjalmur Stefansson," one page, University Club letterhead, November 6, 1918, written to Henry Rood saying he would like to see him if he happens to be in New York. Both TLSs are signed "V. Stefansson," each one page, personal letterhead, the first dated December 7, 1935, giving Rood permission to use his material in his forthcoming book of reminiscences and providing the address of explorer Ejnar Mikkelsen; the second is dated December 19, 1940, and provides information on the copyright of certain photographs that Rood would like to use. This letter, in part: "We have pictures where I am wearing the same suit of clothes and which were therefore taken probably about the same time. These are by Elliott & Fry…It was taken in 1913 and surely the copyright will have run out—not that I am an authority on copyright law." The signed photo depicts a landscape in Alberta, 4.75 x 3.5, boldly signed and inscribed on the reverse, "This dam was evidently broken through by a flood. It is now some eight feet high. Near Athabasca Landing, June, 1906. V. Stefansson. To Kingsland Rood." The four unsigned photos consist of a formal postcard portrait of Stefansson, a larger portrait of him in his exploring gear, a photo of Stefansson's ship 'Karluk' before being crushed about eighty miles from Wrangell Island, and a photo of a Barren Grounds Grizzly, with a note in another hand on the reverse stating that Stefansson brought back seventeen complete specimens and before that there were not more than six in all the museums of the world. The formal postcard photo was reproduced from one inscribed to Rood, and apparently the image referenced in the last letter. In overall fine condition, with scattered creases and soiling, and various edge tears and tack holes to the unsigned photos. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.
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