Included is an autograph letter signed "W.F. Cody," one page, 5" x 8", dated December 5, circa early 1900s, on pictorial stationery from The New Hoffman House, Madison Square, New York. In the letter, Cody offers a reference for Jack Allen, stating:
"To Whom it May Concern, That Jack Allen has been for two seasons in my employ. And I have found him an excellent man in every respect. Very truly yours, W.F. Cody."
The letter is written in Cody’s distinctive hand and signed clearly at the bottom. The page shows age toning, minor edge tears, and creasing, but overall presents well and is very displayable.
Accompanying the letter is an original sepia-toned mounted photograph depicting Buffalo Bill Cody standing proudly with other members of his Wild West Show beside a horse-drawn stagecoach. Native American performers, costumed cowboys, and a dramatic Western backdrop complete the vivid scene. The image measures approximately 8" x 10" on its original mount, with some soiling, creasing, and scattered loss on the mount, but with the photograph itself remaining largely intact and offering excellent period detail. The reverse retains remnants of the original mounting and faint inscriptions identifying Cody. The photo orginates from The Malcom Forbes collection
Adding historic context is a fascinating handwritten note by Mrs. Geo. W. Smith of Newport, Vermont, circa 1916, attesting that the photograph is an original taken by photographer W.S. Dudley of Hartford, Connecticut, circa 1916, and affirming its authenticity and familial provenance.
Buffalo Bill Cody (February 26, 1846 – January 10, 1917), was an American soldier, bison hunter, and showman. One of the most famous and well-known figures of the American Old West, Buffalo Bill's legend began to spread when he was only 23. Shortly thereafter he started performing in shows that displayed cowboy themes and episodes from the frontier and Indian Wars. He founded Buffalo Bill's Wild West in 1883, taking his large company on tours in the United States and, beginning in 1887, in Great Britain and continental Europe.
With One of a Kind Collectibles LOA.