26244

WWI FDR TLS with telescope WWI FDR Typed Letter Signed and Donated Navy Telescope.

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:1.00 USD Estimated At:1,000.00 - 1,200.00 USD
WWI FDR TLS with telescope  WWI FDR Typed Letter Signed and Donated Navy Telescope.
<B> WWI FDR Typed Letter Signed and Donated Navy Telescope.</B></I> During the First World War the U.S. Navy solicited donations of materials that would assist the war effort. High on the list of needed goods were telescopes and binoculars. Offered here is one such privately owned telescope that was sent to the Navy and such correspondence as related to the loan. The functional brass and steel telescope, manufactured by Bardou and Son of Paris, measures 38.0" fully extended and 10.25" collapsed. In addition to maker's marks, it has a Navy ID# and a metal tag affixed to the shaft with wire.The tag reads "<I> Donated to the U.S. Navy by A.H. Miller 8 Grove St. Peterborough N.H. 1621</B></I>." The telescope has leather covers attached to a leather strap. Overall condition is Fine, with the leather remaining supple. The highlight of the correspondence is an FDR TLS as Assistant Secretary of the Navy on an official letterhead signed, "<I> Franklin D. Roosevelt</B></I>", one page, 8.0" x 10.5", January 11, 1918, Washington, D.C. to A.H. Miller in New Hampshire. It reads, "<I> Your prompt and patriotic response to the NAVY'S call for binoculars is most appreciated. The glasses will be very useful in the prosecution of Naval Operations until victory is won. At the termination of the war, if possible, every effort will be made to return them to you when it is hopes that you will feel compensated for any evidence of wear, but the knowledge that you have supplied 'Eyes for the Navy' during a very trying period. On behalf of the NAVY, I wish to thank you most heartily</B></I>". This is likely a "form" letter as Miller sent a telescope rather than the binoculars referred to. The lot contains two Navy circulars regarding ocular loans, a Navy postal cover addressed to Miller, a clipped return address for Miller, and Roosevelt's mailing address in manuscript. All paper materials display minimal aging and are in Very Fine condition. <BR><BR><B>Important notic