Historic 1905 Political Letter – Signed by Curtis Guild Jr.

Offered here is an original typed, signed letter (TLS) from Curtis Guild Jr. (1860–1915), written on official Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Council Chamber, State House, Boston letterhead and dated June 29, 1905. The letter is addressed to Rev. F. Hovey Allen, a noted minister and author in New York.

In this letter, Guild expresses his pleasure at serving as a reference for Rev. Allen, closing warmly with:

> “I am so glad you cared to have me as a reference. Indeed it will be a pleasure to do service in that capacity for you at any time.”

The letter is neatly typed and boldly signed “Curtis Guild Jr.” in ink at the bottom.

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Historical Significance

Curtis Guild Jr. served as Lieutenant Governor of Massachusetts from 1903–1906 and became the 43rd Governor of Massachusetts (1906–1909). He was a progressive reformer, advocating for labor rights, consumer protection, and public health measures. He was also a journalist and editor of the Boston Commercial Bulletin.

Rev. F. Hovey Allen (1859–1926) was a prominent minister, author, and educator based in New York. His works included religious and historical studies, and he was active in intellectual and ecclesiastical circles.

This letter captures Guild in the final year of his lieutenant governorship, just before his rise to governor, making it an excellent snapshot of his political and personal network.

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Condition

Original 1905 letter on embossed Massachusetts State House letterhead

Crisp typing and strong signature in ink

Minor folds from mailing, otherwise very well preserved for 120 years old

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Collector Value

Curtis Guild Jr. material is desirable among collectors of Massachusetts political history and early 20th-century governors. This signed letter has crossover appeal for both political autograph collectors and those interested in religious/intellectual correspondence.