Prominent African-American composer (1895–1978) whose pioneering Afro-American Symphony (1930) was the first work of its kind. Typed tribute letter, signed “William Grant Still,” one page, 8.5 x 11, dated September 1943. Tribute to Walter White commemorating his 25 years of service to the NAACP. In full: “To Walter White, on the completion of twenty five years of service for the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People—Dear Walter, Your brilliant mind, quick wit, and constructive aggressiveness have helped you to make a splendid contribution to our democracy. In these crucial times, no more enduring praise could be given to any American.” In fine condition, with marginal binding holes along left edge. White was a civil rights activist who led the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) for almost a quarter of a century and directed a broad program of legal challenges to segregation and disfranchisement. Having both African and European ancestry, he and his family identified as Negro and lived among Atlanta's Negro community. RR Auction COA.
