Lot 4494
[James, Jesse & Frank] Zerelda Cole James Samuels, mother of the James brothers. Autograph Letter Signed ("Zerelda Samuels"), Kearney Clay County., Missouri, Feb. 27, 1888, two pages, octavo. Written six years after her son Jesse was shot by Bob Ford and three years after Frank's release from prison, to N.D. Thompson, offering family photographs for sale. The letter is written on ruled paper. Some toning and soiling; vertical and horizontal folds traverse the signature. Boldly penned and signed and exceedingly rare.
"Respected sir I will try to respond to your letter which came to hand a few days ago in regard to the pictures. I wrote if you would send me 50 dollars you could have them and if not it isint [sic] worthwhile to say any thing more. If you will send me 25 dollars I will send you three pictures - myself Susie James and Doctor Samuels and will send the other three for 25$ more. I do not wish any books as I know the history of my sons about as well as the men that are wrighting [sic] the book. Write immediately and oblige, Zerelda Samuels."
On January 26, 1875, Mrs. Samuels was seriously injured, losing a hand, during a botched raid on her farm by the Pinkertons. During the turmoil, her nine-year-old son, Archie Peyton Samuels, half brother of Frank and Jesse James, was killed, and a servant wounded.
Estimated Value $4,000 - 6,000.
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