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Lot #136
J. Paul Getty

The 18-year-old Getty prepares to enter the University of California

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Estimate: $400+
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Description

The 18-year-old Getty prepares to enter the University of California

ALS signed “Paul,” four pages on two adjoining sheets, 5 x 6.75, personal letterhead, August 14, 1911. The 18-year-old Getty writes a letter to his father from Berkeley, in part: “I hope that by this time you will have received my telegram. I put in a couple of busy days I assure you. How did the U. C. happen to send their letter to you? The matter stands as follows: The U. C. doesn’t think my credentials strong enough to warrant their letting me enter without some matriculation examinations. I will have to study hard on Latin, Greek, and Civics. I got my credit in Spanish and I think I certainly deserved it. As soon as I am able to take my examinations I will. I will probably get into the U. C. the beginning of the second semester. In fact I know I will, because I am right up here, can get advice from the professors any time I need it, can hire a Senior to coach me, and, best of all, can use the wonderful university library as much as I want to. There is a prep. school up here called Boone’s. It is right near the Y.M.C.A. and is supposed to be one of the best schools in the country. It makes a business of coaching fellows for U. C. I know that if I went to it for this semester I could pass the matriculation examinations in January…Please write and tell me which you think is best for me to do. Personally, I believe that if I get a good tutor, a Senior in the College of Letters to help me for a while and study hard I will get the necessary learning to enable me to matriculate.” Getty adds a brief postscript, “I certainly have had a siege with my teeth. They were all out of repair. I will not lose anything by entering in January as I have 9 units of college work to turn in, consequently I can graduate in ’15 as we planned. Write soon.” Also includes an unsigned Exchange National Bank book from Tulsa, Oklahoma, issued to “J. Paul Getty;” an ALS signed by his mother, Sarah Catherine Getty; and a 1930 Loyal Order of Moose membership card issued to George F. Getty. In fine condition. Pre-certified PSA/DNA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autographs And Artifacts
  • Dates: #481 - Ended August 10, 2016





This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
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