Collection of approximately 52 letters, including 16 ALSs, most signed “Paul,” with a few signed with just an initial, “P,” dated between 1942 and 1976. All are addressed to Verda Burling of Madison, Wisconsin. Also includes six Christmas cards, each signed “Paul,” as well as six unsigned cards and two unsigned books. Getty’s letters range from comments on daily life, to business, to his close relationship with Burling from days gone by. In his earliest letters, he mentions his business: “I am still down here keeping the production line rolling; I have been working so hard that I may take a vacation after a while.” He also talks of scouting out real estate for his friend, recommending Los Angeles: “I love the climate here and the mountains and the sea,” and in another letter saying, “I am very fond of California and have no hesitancy in boosting Southern California as the best place to live and work.” Getty also tries to secure her a position at Lockheed Aircraft Corporation. Curiously, he mentions getting evicted in 1944, and suggests, “I suppose I may have to live in a tent.” In April 1945, he assures Burling that “housing conditions will improve now that Germany is beaten.” As Burling’s health declines—at one point we learn that she may have multiple sclerosis—Getty offers frequent words of kind encouragement and tells her to keep her chin up. The letters also display Getty’s sense of humor—in 1956, Getty, in his mid-60s, claims, “I am old now with a white beard down to my knees.” Shortly after Fortune magazine named him the richest living American—a billionaire—Getty writes on November 19, 1957, in part: “This silly publicity has caused me lots of trouble—literally thousands of people have written me for financial assistance. I don’t know what they think I am—Santa Claus?!” Other letters reference a visit to the 1958 Brussels World’s Fair, a nervous television appearance, and a large addition to the J. Paul Getty Museum, among other things. In overall very good to fine condition, with various folds, creases, and soiling. This archive paints a picture of Getty as surprisingly down-to-earth, a hardworking businessman, and a caring, concerned friend. RR Auction COA.
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