Autographs
Rare Theodore Roosevelt's WW I Division Related Letter
(THEODORE ROOSEVELT). Often referred to as Teddy or his initials T. R., was an American politician, statesman, conservationist, naturalist, historian, and writer who served as the 26th President of the United States from 1901 to 1909.
c. May 1917 WW1 Period, "Form C - Office Of THEODORE ROOSEVELT 753 Fifth Avenue, New York, Room 402" headed stationary, Typed Letter, no date, not signed by Roosevelt, regarding an application to join Theodore Roosevelt's Army division, rejected for the reason of "age", Very Good. This rare World War 1 period typed letter is laid down onto a heavier card stock and is somewhat brittle with age and chipped at the corner tips, primarily at the upper right where the cardstock has broken. The violet type text is faded, being basically readable, and is signed by "W. E. Dame" at its conclusion, an apparent assistant to Roosevelt. This letter reads, in full:
Dear Sir: - I regret to inform you that your application for enrollment in Mr. Roosevelt's division, which he proposes to raise in the event of war, has not been approved by the committee on account of - age - Mr. Roosevelt has asked me to thank you for your patriotic offer, and to express his regrets in being unable to avail himself of your service. - Very respectfully, - W. E. Dame."
This 1917 headline from the New York Times helps to tell the story around this letter:
"Fight for Roosevelt's Division to be Carried Back to Congress
May 12, 1917, Saturday
WASHINGTON, May 11.-- Notice was given in the House today that an effort would be made tomorrow to reject the conference report on the Army Draft bill because of the elimination of the amendment permitting Theodore Roosevelt to organize a division of volunteers for service in France.
KEYWORDS:
Theodore Roosevelt
New York
Roosevelt
World War I
WW I