Lot 989

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Description:

(DEATH OF WARREN HARDING) GRACE COOLIDGE
(1879-1957) First Lady, wife of Calvin Coolidge, 30th President of the United States. Very fine content T.L.S. as First Lady on black-bordered White House letterhead, 1p. small 4to., Washington, Aug. 17, 1923, to Senator Selden P. Spencer. A week following the state funeral for the late Warren Harding, Grace Coolidge paid a visit to First Lady, Florence Kling Harding, who would depart the White House the next day. Mrs. Coolidge writes, in part: "...Mr. Coolidge and I went to the White House last evening to call upon Mrs. Harding, and Laddie Boy was the first to welcome us and accompanied us to the automobile when we were leaving. Don't you think that was rather nice?...". Laddie Boy (1919 - 1929), was Warren Harding's airedale terrier who achieved national fame: he had his own carved chair to sit in during cabinet meetings, was the focus of lavish birthday parties held on the White House grounds, and even was the subject of mock interviews in the national press. Laddie accompanied Harding on his trip to Alaska and reportedly howled for three days prior to Harding's death in San Francisco, anticipating his master's demise. On the evening of Aug. 16, the Coolidges paid a visit to Mrs. Harding on the eve of her departure from the White House. According to the New York Times: "President Coolidge is not included to be superstitious but something occurred last night when he and Mrs. Coolidge went to the White House to call on Mrs. Harding that he regarded as a good omen. When the presidential automobile drew up before the north door, Laddie Boy bounded out and down the steps in greeting so cordial and affectionate that both Mr. and Mrs. Coolidge took special notice of it. Mr. Coolidge, relating the incident to callers today, said he hoped it might be regarded as an omen of the spirit in which he might be received by all those associated with the late President" (Aug. 18, 1923). Usual folds, minor paperclip marks at upper left, else fine condition. A superb association piece.

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July 22, 2011 11:30 AM EDT
Stamford, CT, US

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