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Lot #196
William Fargo

"I am quite in the dark"—a rare letter from the American Express president

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Estimate: $1500+
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Description

"I am quite in the dark"—a rare letter from the American Express president

Businessman (1818-1881) who co-founded the famous express firm Wells, Fargo & Co., served as president of American Express, and later directed the New York Central and Northern Pacific Railways. Extremely rare ALS signed “Wm. G. Fargo,” one page, 7.75 x 10, American Express Company letterhead, January 20, 1880. Letter to American Express Treasurer Alex Holland, in part: "I am glad to hear that you are getting along so well with Rice and hope that matters will prove no worse than were anticipated. I should take the mortgage for $25,000 as suggested. I had the report & for 1879 sent to J. C. Fargo: if, after checking them up, it is thought best to have more, they can be sent. I sent you this morning the dispatch requested, though not knowing for what it is to be asked or what it means. I am quite in the dark." In fine condition, with strips of toning to the top and bottom. While Fargo-signed stock certificates are common, letters are exceedingly scarce—this is the first example we have ever encountered.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autographs and Artifacts
  • Dates: #510 - Ended October 11, 2017





This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
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