Self-educated African-American botanist (circa 1864–1943) who became a leading expert in agricultural science, most notably relating to the cultivation and practical uses of the peanut. TLS signed with his elderly “G. W. Carver,” one page, 8.5 x 11, George Washington Carver Foundation letterhead, October 13, 1941. Carver writes to Rev. C. M. Haygood, president of the Carvoline Company. In part: “Thank you for your splendid letter and the attached check for forty dollars, which I am sure, as you know, that I am more thankful for than I have words to express because it comes to the Foundation from a source that is very near and dear to me, as you, Mr. Powell, and the Trustees are all a part of this Foundation. I am working myself very hard to establish something that each one will feel proud of. This first check I am hoping to get hold of after it is cancelled and put it into my scrapbook as a historical document. I am very confident that you know that my heart is with the Carvoline Company one hundred percent always….” Intersecting mailing folds (tiny edge separations) and a few faint stains and wrinkles, otherwise fine condition. R&R COA.
