Clara Barton Signed Letter on Caring for Loved One in Final Years PSA Bold Auto

Title:
Clara Barton TLS on Caring for Loved One in Final Years, with Original Envelope, March 7, 1910 — PSA/DNA Certified (Cert #AS01148)

Description:
Offered here is an extraordinary Typed Letter Signed (TLS) by Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross, dated March 7, 1910, composed at her residence in Glen Echo, Maryland where even in the twilight of her life, Clara Barton remained a steadfast caregiver—tending to the needs of loved ones with the same compassion and tireless devotion that defined her legendary humanitarian career. The letter, typed on one sheet of personal stationery, includes two full pages of typed content with a bold, hand-signed signature at the conclusion: "Affectionately & gratefully, Clara Barton." Accompanying the letter is the original mailing envelope, postmarked March 7, 1910, addressed to Dr. Herbert P. Barton at the Clara Barton Hospital in Los Angeles, California.

The letter measures approximately 8.5” x 11” and remains in very good condition, exhibiting expected mailing folds and minor age toning. The envelope has been cleanly slit open and shows some chipping at the upper right corner, not affecting the typed address or postmark. The typed content is clean and fully legible.

Full Transcription of Letter (2 pages):
Glen Echo, Md.
March 7, 1910.

My dear Herbert,

Again I come to acknowledge your check, enclosed in your letter of the 26th ult. I am as much mystified as ever how this money comes and keeps coming to me, but, as you see, I accept and you should know how dearly I thank you for it. It has far more than its own single value, for the thought of your remembrance doubles it many times.

I have just had a visit of a whole week from Steve! he had gotten about to the end of his rope; could not sleep and in constant pain through the chest. He had been going on this way for months, and finally gave up and came for a little stay with me. He had two painful nights after coming; the other four were perfectly painless; he slept pretty nearly over two days and nights; found himself well and left us yesterday, feeling as well as ever in his life. Of course, it will not continue, but he has learned where to come when he can’t stand it any longer.

Charlie Clark, as you know, has been very ill. They think him something better now. Johnie Stafford is not well and also needs a rest.

That is the matter with people that they will work themselves to death.

I know that you are busy, as a busy man can be, but pray, dear Herbert, don’t go beyond yourself. You will know better than the other when to stop.

(H.P.B. #2)

Our spring seems to have commenced in these first days of March. We are sitting without fires, windows and doors wide open. I can only imagine what you have in California, but know that it is something almost beyond imagination. I am so glad that you are there to enjoy it.

Please give dear love to all, while I remain, as always,

Affectionately & gratefully,
Clara Barton

Dr. Herbert P. Barton,
Clara Barton Hospital,
Los Angeles, Calif.

Historical Context:
This deeply personal letter was written by Clara Barton (1821–1912) at the age of 88, just two years before her passing. Barton had retired to Glen Echo, Maryland, now a National Historic Site, after a lifetime of humanitarian work that included nursing the wounded during the Civil War, founding the American Red Cross in 1881, and advocating for disaster relief and civil rights.

This correspondence is addressed to Dr. Herbert P. Barton, Clara’s relative and namesake administrator of the Clara Barton Hospital in Los Angeles. The tone is warm, grateful, and gently admonishing, a characteristic of Barton’s later-life correspondence. She expresses appreciation for ongoing financial support, discusses the health of friends and associates, and gently cautions Dr. Barton about overworking, emphasizing rest and self-care.

The letter provides a rare and moving glimpse into the daily life, emotional bonds, and enduring strength of one of America’s foremost humanitarians in her twilight years. The mention of "Steve" and "Charlie Clark" further enriches the personal dimension of the letter, offering insights into Barton’s close circle and enduring concern for others.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
This item has been fully authenticated by PSA/DNA and includes a Letter of Authenticity dated October 13, 2025 with Certification Number AS01148. PSA confirms that the signature is genuine and that all additional writing is in Clara Barton's hand.

• A tamper-evident PSA authentication sticker is affixed to the LOA for reference.

• Additional Documentation & Provenance: At buyer’s request, Historical Autographs Gallery will include an additional “Historical Autographs Gallery Certificate” signed by our company founder Luke Pascal at no cost.

Closing Appeal:
An authentic, content-rich letter from Clara Barton—hand-signed in her final years—offering gratitude, reflection, and personal care to her family. With both TLS and original envelope present and PSA-certified, this is an exceptional piece for collectors of humanitarian, Civil War, or Red Cross history. Its powerful content and strong provenance make it a cornerstone item for any serious Americana collection.

Shipping Notice:
For insurance purposes, items sold over $600 may require signature confirmation upon delivery. Higher-value items, likely over $1,500, are shipped via FedEx 2-Day with Direct Signature Confirmation. FedEx provides the most flexibility when requiring a signature, allowing you to make special delivery requests directly through their tracking system. This ensures both security and convenience for the buyer.