Title:
Franklin D. Roosevelt TLS Signed as Governor-Elect of New York, December 4, 1928 – Warm Springs Letter – PSA/DNA Certified Authentic Auto – Certification #85882762

Description:
A historically significant Typed Letter Signed (TLS) by Franklin D. Roosevelt, dated December 4, 1928, on personalized letterhead reading "Franklin D. Roosevelt." The one-page letter was written from Warm Springs, Georgia, shortly after Roosevelt's election as Governor of New York and approximately four years before his election as President of the United States.

The letter is addressed to:

Major Oliver P. Newman
c/o Thomas R. Shipp, Inc.
Albee Building
Washington, D.C.

Roosevelt warmly thanks Newman for his congratulations while reflecting on the recent election and the future of the Democratic Party. He notes that although the party lost the national election, New York's Democratic success demonstrates continued political strength. He concludes by stating that he is spending time at Warm Springs studying the problems of state government before assuming office.

The letter is boldly signed in fountain pen:

Franklin D. Roosevelt

The signature is large, dark, and exceptionally attractive. The document remains highly presentable with expected horizontal mailing folds and light age toning, all consistent with a document of this period. It has been professionally authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA for preservation and display.

Full Transcription:

FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT

At Warm Springs, Ga.,
December 4, 1928.

Major Oliver P. Newman,
c/o Thomas R. Shipp, Inc.,
Albee Building,
Washington, D.C.

Dear Ollie:

I am sorry not to have had an opportunity before this to thank you for your mighty nice letter of congratulations. I appreciate your thought of me.

While I am, of course, delighted that we have saved most of the State administration of New York, the victory is clouded by the result of the National election.

However, it is well worth remembering that Governor Smith has polled at least six million more votes than any previous Democratic candidate, and, as a matter of fact, the increase in the Democratic vote is far larger than that of our opponent. Certainly the Party is by no means out of the running.

Now that my election is certain I am spending the rest of my time down here studying the problems of State government.

I shall hope to see you in Washington sometime.

Always sincerely,

Franklin D. Roosevelt

Historical Context:
This letter captures Franklin D. Roosevelt at a pivotal moment in his political career. Written less than one month after his election as Governor of New York in November 1928, Roosevelt reflects on the Democratic Party's disappointing national defeat while expressing optimism about its future. Democratic presidential nominee Alfred E. Smith had lost the 1928 election to Herbert Hoover, yet Roosevelt emphasizes the significant increase in Democratic voter support, foreshadowing the political realignment that would culminate in his own landslide victory just four years later.

The letter was composed at Warm Springs, Georgia, where Roosevelt sought treatment for the effects of polio. Warm Springs became far more than a rehabilitation retreat—it evolved into Roosevelt's political sanctuary and remained closely associated with him throughout his presidency. Documents from this period are especially desirable because they illustrate Roosevelt preparing to assume the governorship, the office that restored him to national prominence and ultimately paved his path to the White House.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
Professionally authenticated and encapsulated by PSA/DNA as Authentic Auto.

• PSA/DNA Certification Number: 85882762
• One-page Typed Letter Signed (TLS) in fountain pen by Franklin D. Roosevelt.
• Dated December 4, 1928, from Warm Springs, Georgia.
• Encapsulated in a tamper-evident PSA holder for superior protection and display.
• 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:
This outstanding pre-presidential Franklin D. Roosevelt TLS represents an important milestone in American political history. Written immediately after his election as Governor of New York, the letter offers firsthand insight into Roosevelt's political outlook during the formative years that led to his presidency. With its strong, bold signature, compelling historical content, and PSA/DNA authentication, this is a premier acquisition for collectors of presidential autographs, New Deal history, and twentieth-century American political memorabilia.

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.