Description:

WILLIAM "BILL" WILSON
(1895 - 1971) "Bill W.", co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous (AA). While lying in bed depressed and despairing, he cried out, "I'll do anything! Anything at all! If there be a God, let Him show Himself!" He then had the sensation of a bright light, a feeling of ecstasy, and a new serenity. He never drank again, and sought out the support of others to eventually establish self-supporting groups of alcoholics. Early, fine content T.L.S. "Bill Wilson", 2pp. 4to. on "The Alcoholic Foundation" letterhead, "National Headquarters - Alcoholics Anonymous", New York, July 27, 1943 to Dr. Forrist Haley responding to an invitation. In part: "...Lois and I have never had a vacation together since A.A. started...My travelling experience among the groups suggests that I ought first to consult them as to their wishes -- the order in which they might be visited, the length of time they would like us to stay...About expenses, I would prefer to have The Foundation take care of that but it simply can't. Nor can we...I often insist that new and small groups do nothing. I wish the subject didn't have to be brought up at all. The Santa Monica-Culver City folks want to stand the whole gaff and I am much touched by their generosity...your Central Committee at Los Angeles could get in touch with San Francisco...and see if I could be furnished with a preliminary idea of how the California groups as a whole would like the trip handled...We want to do the things that would be most useful to you Californians...It has been the privilege of you Californians to pioneer A.A. with mightily little outside help. Your demonstration has shown that A.A. can spread over the face of the earth -- and will. It is a wholesome miracle which makes us exclaim 'What hath God wrought'". Light folds, otherwise boldly signed and very good.

Accepted Forms of Payment:

Discover, MasterCard, Money Order / Cashiers Check, Paypal, Personal Check, Visa, Wire Transfer

Shipping

Shipment is sent USPS priority, USPS International Express (for most overseas) or UPS Ground at the auctioneer's option, signature required, unless other arrangements are made. Handling, shipping and insurance charges will be added to the invoice in one entry. Buyers should be aware that large, framed, fragile or odd shaped items can incur substantial shipping and packing charges. NOTE: Large, heavy or bulky items are not shipped by the auctioneer - arrangements for shipping of these items via a third-party shipper may be arrange through the auction house. Please see "Bidding Procedures" for contact information of recommended shippers. Customers who supply their own courier account number will still be charged a handling fee.

January 31, 2013 11:00 AM EST
Stamford, CT, US

Alexander Historical Auctions LLC

You agree to pay a buyer's premium of 22.5% and any applicable taxes and shipping.

View full terms and conditions

Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $99 $10
$100 $499 $20
$500 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 + $1,000