GERALD R. FORD
(1913 - 2006) 38th President of the United States who assumed office upon the resignation of Richard Nixon, who Ford later pardoned for any involvement in the Watergate scandal. Large archive of GERALD FORD and BETTY FORD correspondence, with 19 A.L.S.'s and nine T.L.S.'s by Ford, with BETTY FORD writing 19 A.L.S.'s (one additionally signed by Gerald), and 12 T.L.S.'s all written to film agent Sid Craig, friendly content thanking Craig for his assistance in representing their actor-son STEVEN FORD, all post-presidential and in fine condition, almost all embossed with gold Presidential seal with matching transmittal envelopes. A fine dealer lot showing aspects of the First Family often unnoticed when Ford held office. Ford reveals himself as a man of charming and self-deprecating humor, in part: "... Dear Sid: You were most thoughtful to remember my 90υth birthday. I appreciate the Presidential golf balls-they will come in handy. Now if they could only improve my game... [August 5, 2003] Dear Sid: Thank you for remembering my 92υnd birthday-it was a great day. You were most thoughtful to send the butter pecan ice cream. I love it-you know it's my favorite, however, my waist does not thank you! [July 18, 2005]". In addition to showing the former President could chuckle at himself, the letters also show grace, composure, and classic manners from First Lady Betty Ford. In part: "... Dear Sid, It was such a pleasure to receive the vase of beautiful yellow roses. They are favorites of mine and look beautiful in our home. You are such a special friend to think of me each year... [May 12, 2004]. However, the Fords are perhaps their most impressive while working as a team, whether in looking after their son's acting career: "... We watched Flipper Sunday night-It was a nice little piece-Steve is improving with each show he does... [December 8, 1995]... We also thank you for the fine help you give Steve-I am anxious to see Black Hawk Down...[December 19, 1999?]" or appreciating their anniversary: "Dear Sid- A belated thank you note, but none the less sincere, for your beautiful tulips in celebration of our anniversary-The 50 years has gone by very fast and had many highs and some lows-but it has been a fabulous trip and I wouldn't change any of it... [December 8, 1998]". Well said by a family who endured personal struggles while still participating in many of the nation's biggest events, including the Warren Commission and restoring the country's trust after Watergate. The lot also includes a December 21, 1994 signature "Jerry Ford" in red ink and a November 1, 1993 note with combined signatures "Betty Ford" and "Jerry Ford" in blue ink. Fine.