FIRST LADY MAMIE DOUD EISENHOWER - AUTOGRAPH LETTER SIGNED 05/17/1962 - HFSID 295493

MAMIE DOUD EISENHOWER
Letter to a close friend, whose husband has just died
Autograph Letter signed: "Mamie Doud Eisenhower", 1 page, 6x9. No place, 1962 May 17. To "Dear Frances" [Strecker], in full: "We have just received the sad news of George's death. 'Ike' and I send you and your family our heartfelt sympathy. Your fine daughter and son will be a great comfort to you. George was a fine man and loyal friend and will be missed by all who knew him. My love to you". On July 1, 1916, 25-year-old Second Lieutenant Dwight D. Eisenhower (1890-1969) and 19-year-old Mamie Geneva Doud (1896-1979) were married in Denver, Colorado. They had two sons: Dwight Doud Eisenhower (1917-1920) and John Sheldon Doud Eisenhower (born in 1923). As an Army wife for 37 years, Mamie grew accustomed to entertaining groups of influential people, a talent she drew upon during her eight years as the White House hostess (1953-1961). In their 53 years of married life, the Eisenhower's lived in 33 homes; their last in Gettysburg was the only home they owned together. During Ike's final illness, Mamie moved into Walter Reed Army Hospital to be with him during the final months of his life. Dwight D. Eisenhower, the fifth general to be elected President, served as the nations' 34th President from 1953 to 1961. From the collection of George Strecker, an advertising executive at the Chicago Tribune who became close to the Eisenhower's through his wife, Frances, a long-time friend with Mamie Eisenhower. Toned. Fold through center. Adhesive at edges. Unknown stains along edges. Otherwise, fine condition.