Lot #110

Eleanor Roosevelt Typed Letter Signed as First Lady

Description

With the threat of war looming, the First Lady urges the "buying of bonds now and the postponing of all possible work until the post-defense period"

World War II-dated TLS as first lady, one page, 6 x 9, White House letterhead, August 27, 1941. Letter to Walter H. Bieringer of the Boston Committee for Refugees, in part: "I think the first thing the Good Neighbor committees should do is to help the draft boards get men back in jobs. They should encourage the buying of bonds now and the postponing of all possible work until the post-defense period. They should also encourage and plan for housing on a big scale after the defense period. The National Resources Planning Board is working on plans for post-defense needs." Archivally double-matted and framed with a photo and the original mailing envelope to an overall size of 20.5 x 18. In fine condition.

Written four months the bombing of Pearl Harbor, this interesting letter shows the First Lady supporting her husband's war readiness strategy. Franklin D. Roosevelt was reelected the previous November on the basis that he would keep America out of the war. He knew this was impossible but he also knew that he would lose the election if he admitted as much. With the election won, both Roosevelts began preparing the country for its inevitable entrance into World War II.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts
• Dates: #633 - Ended April 13, 2022

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