TLS by James H. Doolittle, signed “J. H. Doolittle,” one page, 7.25 x 10.5, George Washington Bicentennial Airplane Flight letterhead, July 25, 1932. Letter to noted writer and broadcaster Lowell Thomas. In part: “One hundred and fifty-seven years ago this week, the Continental Congress inaugurated the postal service…No one in the early days of the service had a more appreciative understanding of the advantages of a postal service than George Washington…In this Bicentennial Year of George Washington’s birth…I am making a flight over as many of the routes traveled by George Washington as is possible in a single day from dawn to dusk. I am informed that the average speed made by George Washington may be considered to be about twenty miles a day. The advance since then can best be indicated by the fact that it is hoped to cover in each hour the distance it took Washington nine days to travel.” Includes the original airmail cover with a cachet honoring the historic flight, signed in fountain pen by Thomas. In fine condition, with scattered toning. Accompanied by full letters of authenticity from JSA for both the letter and cover.
