The Rock & Roll Americana Auction

Lot #942:

Edith Roosevelt Signed Letters (4)

A nice collection of four handwritten signed letters with their accompanying signed franked envelopes from Edith K. Roosevelt, former first lady and second wife of President Theodore Roosevelt. Envelopes and letters are addressed to Colonel Fitz Hugh Lee, former aide to President Roosevelt. Letters date 1927, 1933, 1943 and 1944. Much of the subject matter are updates on family activity and whereabouts. In her letter dated July 10, 1943 written one month after her son Kermit died by suicide while serving in the US Army in Alaska, Edith writes, “…I shall miss Kermit, his companionship & affection, but I would not wish him to live as I am living, unable to take any active part in life.” It is reported that Edith was told her son’s seath was due to a heart attack. The letters themselves are signed, “E.K. Roosevelt, Edith K. Roosevelt (2), and “E.K.R.” Sizes vary 10 X 6.5, 5.5 X 6.75, 6 X 7 and 5 X 7.75. All but one are written on two-sides of the stationery. Very good condition