This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/1/2020
The so-called "Truman Reconstruction" was a comprehensive dismantling and rebuilding of the interior of the White House during President Harry Truman's residency. A century and a half of wartime destruction and rebuilding, hurried renovations, and inadequate foundations brought part of the White House to near-imminent collapse. In 1948, architectural and engineering investigations deemed the residence portion of the House unsafe for occupancy by Truman and his family, and the entire residence staff were relocated across the street. For over three years, the White House was gutted, expanded, and rebuilt. Offered here is a two-page typewritten letter on White House letterhead, dated January 20, 1948 to a Mr. George Rothwell Brown. In the letter, Truman details the issues with the White House and the various ways in which upgrades had been approved by the Fine Arts Commission. He also discusses a remodeling of the Capitol building. Signed at the conclusion "Harry Truman" with a large signature. The letter has a horizontal crease and some spotting and toning. In overall fine condition. Accompanied by a full Letter of Authenticity from Beckett Authentication Services (BAS).