Lot 178
Mitchell, Margaret (1900-49) Author of the enormously popular novel, Gone With the Wind (1936); winner of the 1937 Pulitzer Prize. Typed Letter Signed "Margaret Mitchell Marsh," on engraved letterhead, 1p., 11x7¼", Atlanta, Georgia, 1 Apr. 1940. Fine; light toning and a couple of tiny contemporary ink spots. Written to Mrs. K.S. Howlett of Franklin, Tennessee, regarding Mrs. Howlett's comments on Gone With the Wind and her invitation to visit historic spots in Franklin, including the Civil War battlefield. Original transmittal envelope and a postcard photo of Miss Mitchell is included, as well as a 1994 affidavit from Mrs. Howlett's granddaughter, stating that the letter had remained in the family until that date.
In part: "That was a lovely letter you wrote me about 'Gone With the Wind'… You wrote so many things well calculated to make me happy but the nicest thing you wrote was that you thought my book had done 'more to bring the Old South to our children and grandchildren than any Southern history has done.' I am especially grateful to you for those words. You do indeed live upon an historic spot. I have never visited the battlefield at Franklin but I have read so much about it that I feel I have actually seen it. As a child I heard stories of that battle from the lips of survivors and they said it was the bloodiest and most bitter fight of the whole war. I am especially fond of a book named 'Co. Aitch,' by Sam Watkins….His description of the appearance of the battlefield after the fight is enough to bring chills….Business matters rising from 'Gone With the Wind' have kept me tied to my desk for nearly four years, but I hope some day I can visit Franklin."
Estimated Value $3,000 - 5,000.
|
| |
| Realized $2,300 |
