ALS signed “W. F. Cody,” two pages, 8.5 x 11, Cody Military College and International Academy of Rough Riders letterhead, February 10, 1902. Cody writes to Irving R. Bacon in Detroit. In part: “I note what you say in regard to the two pictures. I have always intended taking the one I said I would take when it was produced first in Deeds of Valor. That was my understanding when I said I would purchase the picture. My dates are uncertain from now until April 21st—then I will be at the Hoffman House New York City for two weeks. Then I would like to see the production in Deeds of Valor and take the original painting and make it … The Fate of the Raiders….” The painter Irving R. Bacon (1875–1962) studied in Munich and later became an illustrator for such publications as Harper’s Weekly and McClure’s. Best known for his historical and genre scenes, he was also the “personal” painter for Henry Ford and immortalized the automotive family and their accomplishments in a number of large-scale works. The Buffalo Bill Cody Museum now owns a number of Bacon’s works. Deeds of Valor was a two-volume history of Medal of Honor winners first published in 1905 and illustrated by Bacon; Cody contributed a section on the Indian Wars. In good to very good condition, with intersecting mailing folds, scattered light toning and small stains (slightly touching last name), and wrinkling and creasing. R&R COA.
