DS, signed “W. F. Cody,” two pages, 7.5 x 11.5, January 28, 1913. Agreement between Cody, Frederick Bonfils, and Harry Tammen to create a new show and share the profits evenly. In part: “The parties of the first part, as individuals and owners of The Denver Post and the Denver Weekly Post, are expending time and money in promoting an entertainment of national public interest…and the party of the second part is devoting time and money to the success of said enterprise…it is hereby mutually agreed that the parties to this agreement shall have such an enterprise in view…‘The Last Grand Council of the North American Indian’ and the pageant and pageants given in Denver in 1915 in connection with the Panama Pacific Exposition at San Francisco, the net profits from year to year are to be divided equally, one half to the parties of the first part and one half to the party of the second part…a company may be organized, and if mutually agreed, shares of stock to be sold to other than the parties herein.” Signed at the conclusion by Cody, Bonfils, and Tammen. Beautifully leather- and suede-matted and framed by the Gallery of History, with a portrait of Cody, a name plaque, and an informational plaque, to an overall size of 45 x 23. In fine condition, with Cody’s signature fairly light, but still completely legible. In dire financial need, Cody was forced to continue his career despite his plans to retire. Bonfils and Tammen had purchased the Sells-Floto Circus and sought to expand it with Cody. Unfortunately, Cody’s indebtedness continued through this production, requiring him to remain performing until his death. It was contracts like these that caused the split later in 1913 with his longtime partner Gordon W. ‘Pawnee Bill’ Lillie. Oversized. Pre-certified PSA/DNA and RR Auction COA.
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