Lot 214
Wilson, Woodrow. Typed letter signed as President, 1 page, on White House stationery, 8¾ x 7 in., Washington, Mar. 8, 1918. To Postmaster General Albert S. Burleson (1863-1937), who is considered one of the worst Postmasters in the history of that office. With the approbation of Wilson and with cabinet support, Burleson instituted racial discrimination in hiring and racial segregation in the US Post Office. Wilson not only approved the policy but applied it to other federal agencies. Wilson writes, "This little memorandum has rather impressed me. Do you not think such an order as is suggested would be wise?" We don't know what order Burleson had suggested, but from June 1918 until July 1919, the Post Office Department operated the nation's telephone and telegraph services, an arrangement Burleson had sought for his entire time in office. Light soiling; a horizontal fold runs through the signature. With a 10 x 8 in. photo of Wilson arriving home from the Versailles Peace Conference on July 9, 1919.
Estimated Value $300 - 500.
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| Realized $360 |
