Dwight Eisenhower Self Deprecating TLS on Golfing Abilities

A letter from 34th President Dwight Eisenhower (1890-1969) to Betty Tompkins, wife of his long-time friend and West Point classmate William Tompkins (1892-1969). TLS, 1p on White House letterhead, measuring 6.75" x 9", dated April 23, 1960, Washington, D.C. Boldly signed as "Ike E" in black pen, the President jokes that he and his putter, a replica of Bobby Jones' famous "Calamity Jane", recently fell short of the original pairing. Lightly toned, with two punch holes present at upper edge and flattened horizontal fold at middle. Overall, near fine.

In full:
"Thanks for letting me know of the editorial notice that the Richmond paper took of my putting and my putting difficulties. Don't tell them, but neither the new putter nor my own Calamity Jane (I have a duplicate of Bob Jones' that was given to me about a year ago by some press people) seems to produce the magic that I look for -- and need!
Mamie and I look forward to seeing you and Bill at West Point."

Eisenhower became a notable golf enthusiast later in life, and he joined the Augusta National Golf Club in 1948. He played golf frequently during and after his presidency and was unreserved in his passion for the game, going so far as to paint the golf balls black during the winter so he could see them better against snow. Eisenhower also installed a basic golfing facility at Camp David, and he became close friends with the Augusta National Chairman Clifford Roberts, inviting him to stay at the White House on numerous occasions. Despite the President's claims of inadequacy here, he was later named at the World Golf Hall of Fame in the Lifetime Achievement category for his contributions to the sport in 2009.

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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