Rare Autograph and Manuscript Auction
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 11/19/2015
TLS as president, one page, 6 x 8.5, pale green White House letterhead, March 29, 1961. Letter of thanks for a book sent by Lewis Mumford of New York. In full: “It was exceedingly kind of you to send me an advance copy of your forthcoming book, The City In History.TLS as president, one page, 6 x 8.5, pale green White House letterhead, March 29, 1961. Letter of thanks for a book sent by Lewis Mumford of New York. In full: “It was exceedingly kind of you to send me an advance copy of your forthcoming book, The City In History.
I am delighted to have this book in my personal collection, and I know that both my family and I will turn to it often. It is heartening that you have been able to synthesize in this one book so many of your insights on the role of the city in the development of Western culture.
I hope that during my Administration we shall be able to alleviate some of the glaring urban needs which you describe and analyze so powerfully.” Archivally double matted and framed with a portrait of Kennedy and a name plaque to an overall size of 21.25 x 16.5. In fine, clean condition.
Kennedy took great care in endorsing the nation's culture, honoring leading writers, artists, poets, and musicians throughout his presidency. Kennedy also sought to raise aesthetic standards in the design of federal buildings and promoted historic preservation. Mumford, this letter’s recipient, was internationally renowned for his writings on cities, architecture, technology, literature, and modern life, and once praised JFK as ‘the first American President to give art, literature and music a place of dignity in the national life.’
John F. Kennedy LS as President
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