“I am certain if you could get your friend interested, it would greatly help our cause."

William McKinley, Jr., 1843-1901.  25th President of the United States, 1897-1901.  Autograph Letter Signed, W McKinley, one page, 5½" x 8½", on personal stationery, Canton, Ohio, March 5, 1896. 

This is a beautiful letter with an excellent association—one president writing to the son of another.  As this letter shows, McKinley began campaigning for the 1896 presidential nomination shortly after he left office as governor of Ohio on January 13, 1896.  Here, a mere six weeks later, he writes to Ohio Senator James R. Garfield, the son of President James A. Garfield, thanking him for his letter and seeking "help" for "our cause."

He writes, in full:  ”I am much obliged for your letter and enclosures. I am certain if you could get your friend interested, it would greatly help our cause.  I received a letter from Gov. Bushnell, which I sent to Mr. Smith, who is now in Cleveland and which I will write you about as soon as I can see or hear from Mr. Smith.  It relates to the Library. With best wishes, / Your friend . . . ”

McKinley has penned and signed this letter boldly in black.  The letter has horizontal mailing folds, one of which affects the signature, and is in fine condition. 

Unframed.