Lot #204

Franklin D. Roosevelt Typed Letter Signed as President

Description

"I have always taken the position that public buildings or parks ought not to be named after living people—because there is so much danger that living people might later on cause the authorities regret for their action!"

TLS as president, one page, 7 x 9, White House letterhead, December 1, 1939. Letter to Maud Smith Rundall, district superintendent in Amenia, New York. In part: "I did not have a chance to thank you for your letter on behalf of the school board…As you know, I have always taken the position that public buildings or parks ought not to be named after living people—because there is so much danger that living people might later on cause the authorities regret for their action! Nevertheless, I am, as I say, very much complimented and if the board really thinks that the Central School District would, as a whole, approve, I cannot say no." In fine condition, with a faint stain touching the first paragraph.

Located in the Hyde Park Central School District, Franklin Delano Roosevelt High School was built as a Public Works Administration project and dedicated by President Roosevelt in 1940. It is thought to be the only public high school in the United States built under the auspices of, and named for, a sitting president.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Fine Autograph and Artifacts, Ft. Revolutionary War
• Dates: #612 - Ended July 14, 2021

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