Please ensure Javascript is enabled for purposes of website accessibility

Lot #489
Charles Lindbergh

Lindbergh dismisses the presentation of a bust for the Smithsonian, who “had no knowledge about it”

This lot has closed

Estimate: $0+
Sell a Similar Item?
Refer Collections and Get Paid
Share:  

Description

Lindbergh dismisses the presentation of a bust for the Smithsonian, who “had no knowledge about it”

TLS signed “C. A. Lindbergh,” one page, 8.5 x 11, personal letterhead, August 8, 1930. Letter to Vernon Monroe. In full: “I am returning the correspondence regarding the Smithsonian bust. I was in Washington and spoke to Dr. Abbott about this matter and found that he had no knowledge about it except that some organization was attempting to obtain support in making the presentation. I have no knowledge of this organization myself and do not believe that Mr. Lamont would care to take any part in it. I certainly appreciate your interest and consideration.” Light toning along edges, horizontal fold touching bottom of signature, some light creasing, and a paperclip impression to top edge, otherwise fine condition.

Following Lindbergh’s famous flight, people from all over the world wanted to honor the aviator in some way, including this organization, which desired to create a sculpture for the Smithsonian Institute. The problem: the museum had only vague knowledge of such a project, prompting Lindbergh to steer away from any involvement. Clearly, Lindbergh trusted the word of Dr. Charles G. Abbott, secretary of the Smithsonian. The two men knew each quite well and first became acquainted following the pilot’s historic flight. After discussions with Abbott a few years earlier, Lindbergh had even agreed to donate the Spirit of St. Louis to the museum, where it hung in the Arts and Industries for nearly 50 years before being relocated to the National Air and Space Museum. Interestingly, on the very day he wrote this letter, which has ties to his past, he also spoke about the future of manned flights in a radio broadcast, correctly predicting regularly scheduled international air travel. Terrific association to the Smithsonian, an institution that Lindbergh had a long-standing association with. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RRAuction COA.

Auction Info

  • Auction Title:
  • Dates: #353 - Ended January 23, 2010





This item is Pre-Certified by PSA/DNA
Buy a third-party letter of authenticity for $75.00

*This item has been pre-certified by a trusted third-party authentication service, and by placing a bid on this item, you agree to accept the opinion of this authentication service. If you wish to have an opinion rendered by a different authenticator of your choosing, you must do so prior to your placing of any bid. RR Auction is not responsible for differing opinions submitted 30 days after the date of the sale.