THOMAS J. LIPTON - TYPED LETTER SIGNED 12/30/1903 - HFSID 14152

THOMAS J. LIPTON. Typed Letter signed: "Thomas J Lipton", 1p, 8x10¼. London, 1903 December 30. On personal letterhead to Clifford W. Hartridge, c/o Messrs. Russell & Hartridge, New York, N.Y. In full: "I duly received your kind letter and also the magnificent album containing the most interesting letters in relation to the presentation. This I very highly appreciate and it will prove a most delightful and unique souvenir of an occasion which I shall never forget. I feel under a great personal obligation to yourself for the trouble you have taken in connection with the presentation. The manner in which it was carried out from beginning to end reflects great credit on all concerned and I beg you will accept my warmest thanks for all your kindness. Wishing you everything good in the coming year and again assuring you of the great pleasure which the possession of the beautiful album has given me, I am, Yours faithfully". Lipton (1850-1931) had already achieved great success as a Scottish grocery retailer, merchandiser and promoter before his name became associated with tea. The creator of the idea of tea custom blended for various climates and selling tea in prepackaged bags, he turned his energies to promote tea to Americans in 1890. Coffee was the preferred hot drink in America, so Lipton launched a nationwide public relations campaign and by 1909 had established a blending and packaging plant in Manhattan. Lipton also became noted for his philanthropy, which included aiding the poor and building hospitals. Slightly soiled. Vertical fold crosses "L" of signature. Light paperclip stains at left of top and bottom edges. One-half-inch paper separation at both edges of left vertical fold. One-half-inch tear in left margin. Otherwise, fine condition.