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TLS as president, two pages on two adjoining sheets, 7 x 8.75, White House letterhead, November 10, 1921. Letter to Mount Rushmore sculptor Gutzon Borglum, in full: "I have read with very great interest, and alas, some disappointment, your letter of November 6th. It is not easy for me to discuss the North Dakota situation, because I know nothing about it except as I have gotten it from you and from such reports as have appeared in the newspapers. I rather surmised that the regular Republicans of the state were not active in the recent recall fight, probably from the fact that Senator McCumber was not a participant. I am not prepared to say where his sympathies were. I know nothing about the campaign.
The particular thing which I wish to challenge in your letter is the statement by the North Dakota farmers that not one single request from the agricultural interests has been granted. No statement could be more unfair. The Congress has done everything possible to do for the agricultural interests. We have not only helped them to finance their exportations, but we have been tremendously helpful in furnishing means for the planting of crops and very large and generous means for handling the flocks and herds. Moreover, we have been very helpful in providing for interest rates which were almost unthought of when this administration came into power. If anyone thinks the agriculture interests have not been well looked after thus far he has not been careful to go into the situation fully.
I have noted what you say about freedom for political prisoners. There is a sentiment in associating the thought of their freedom with Armistice Day. I have not thought it consistent to make any grant until we have exchanged the ratifications which definitely determine the former state of peace."
President Harding adds a handwritten postscript, signed with his initials, "W.G.H.," in full: "Of course the remark about the appointment of a U.S. judge is as unjustified as though I impugned your friendship." In fine condition, with a light paperclip impression to the first page, and some small stains to the second page.
Borglum was active in North Dakota politics in the early 1920s, helping to advance the agrarian reform movement and aligning himself with the Nonpartisan League. His artistic activities in the Black Hills of South Dakota, where he created the iconic 'Shrine of Democracy' at Mount Rushmore, would begin later in the decade.
From the Collection of Paul K. Carr, former UACC President and Noted Expert.
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