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Lot #136
Rudolf Diesel

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Estimate: $1500+
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Description

German inventor and mechanical engineer (1858-1913) famous for the invention of the diesel engine. TLS in German, signed “Diesel,” one page, 8.5 x 11.5, personal letterhead, February 11, 1911. TLS in German, signed “Diesel,” one page, 8.5 x 11, personal letterhead, February 11, 1911. Written from Munich, a typed letter to James R. Harris, concerning the formation of the Busch-Sulzer Bros. Diesel Engine Company. In part (translated): "I thank you for your kind communication regarding the incorporation of the new company and await with pleasure your draft of the agreement of the new company with me. As far as the price is concerned, at which Mr. Adolphus Busch enters his investment to the new company, I am in accord with the proceeding as proposed by you. As you know, I have complete confidence in Mr. Adolphus Busch and yourself that everything will be attended to correctly and as it should be and I there give you blank power of attorney for arranging of all organization matters. For these reasons also I have not cabled you to-day." A typed translation of Diesel's letter is attached along the top edge to the front of the letter, and a copy of a letter in English to Diesel from Harris is affixed to the reverse. Includes two other letters from Harris concerning the formation of the company, dated April 30, 1910 and April 5, 1911. In very good to fine condition.

Provenance: the collection of Howard Goldman, the bulk of which was sold at Sotheby's in 1995. In 1897, Adolphus Busch (of Anheuser-Busch fame) acquired rights to build diesel engines in the United States, with Rudolph Diesel as a consultant. In 1911, he founded the Busch-Sulzer Bros. Diesel Engine Company as a joint venture with Sulzer Brothers of Switzerland. The company manufactured engines for the US Navy through World War II, after which its assets were sold to the Nordberg Manufacturing Company.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts, Ft. Animation
  • Dates: #608 - Ended May 12, 2021





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