Lot #579

Samuel L. Clemens Autograph Letter Signed, Declining an Invitation to West Point

Description

"I thank the Class of ‘85 most appreciatively for the compliment of their invitation," writes Mark Twain, who declines a West Point invite, noting that "circumstances place the acceptance of it out of my power"

ALS signed “S. L. Clemens,” one page, 5.5 x 8.75, May 31, 1884. Addressed from Hartford, Connecticut, a handwritten letter to John C. W. Brooks, in full: “I thank the Class of ‘85 most appreciatively for the compliment of their invitation, & I sincerely regret that circumstances place the acceptance of it out of my power.” Mounted and framed to an overall size of 16 x 18; a note to the frame backing reads: “This was written to my father, John C. W. Brooks, when he was a cadet at West Point and on the Entertainment Committee for his class.” In very good condition, with light wrinkling and irregular staining, affecting only appearance.

Although Clemens was unable to accept this West Point invitation, the storied satirist was no stranger to the Hudson Valley institution. Per author Philip W. Leon and his 1996 book, Mark Twain and West Point, Clemens visited the historic U.S. Military Academy at least ten times, delighting the cadets with stories, jokes, and speeches. Fascinated with West Point, Clemens mingled with cadets in the barracks, visited classrooms, and observed cavalry and artillery drills and parades. He even formed lasting friendships with many cadets, faculty, and Superintendents. ‘All I know about military matters I got from the gentlemen at West Point, and to them belongs the credit,’ Clemens acknowledged in 1881.

Auction Info

• Auction Title: Fine Autographs and Artifacts Featuring Presidents
• Dates: #735 - Ended 02/11/2026

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