Superb oversized matte-finish 19 x 15 photo, signed, inscribed, and dated in fountain pen to the crew of his presidential yacht (where it was officially displayed), as president, “To The crew of The USS Williamsburg—with kindest regards and appreciation of all the courtesies they have extended to me. Harry S. Truman—White House—New Years Day—1952.” Attractively and archivally double-suede-matted and framed with UV glass and acid-free matting and backing, with a historically descriptive plaque to an overall size of 31.75 x 34. In fine condition. Built in 1915 for wood-pulp magnate Hugh J. Chisholm, the USS Williamsburg was acquired in 1941 by the US Navy and placed into service during World War II. After the war, the Williamsburg relieved the USS Potomac as the presidential yacht, and often carried President Truman to various regions, including Florida, Bermuda, and Cuba. She was decommissioned in 1953 by President Dwight D. Eisenhower, and this portrait, which hung in the USS Williamsburg’s main state dining room, was removed and preserved by Chief Steward Isaac Esperancilla. Along with Arthur Prettyman, Esperancilla had been a valet to Franklin Roosevelt. A remarkable offering deserving of a place in an advanced collection or institution.
