Title:
Harry S. Truman Typed Letter Signed (TLS) with Handwritten Inscription to Fred D. Whitaker – Warm Personal Message to His Parents – May 2, 1955 – PSA LOA #AR05357

Description:
A highly personal Typed Letter Signed (TLS) by President Harry S. Truman, dated May 2, 1955, on his personalized post-presidential stationery from the Federal Reserve Bank Building, Kansas City 6, Missouri. The one-page letter is addressed to Mr. Fred D. Whitaker of Whitaker Motors, Inc., Red Lion, Pennsylvania, and is boldly signed "Harry Truman."

Beyond the signed typed letter, Truman added a substantial handwritten inscription beneath his signature, making this an especially desirable presentation piece. The inscription reads:

"It was a pleasure to meet the Dad and mother. I bet they are proud of you as I am."

The typed letter reflects Truman's appreciation for a recent visit with Whitaker and his wife while expressing hope that they will have more time together in the future.

Full Transcription:

Harry S. Truman
Federal Reserve Bank Building
Kansas City 6, Missouri

May 2, 1955

Dear Fred:

I certainly enjoyed visiting with you and Mrs. Whitaker the other day, and I'm sorry I didn't have more time to spend with you.

One of these days, perhaps, things will cool off so that I can make the visit to you that I have been counting on for so many years.

Sincerely yours,

Harry Truman

Handwritten inscription:
"It was a pleasure to meet the Dad and mother. I bet they are proud of you as I am."

The letter remains in very good condition with expected light mailing folds and minor age toning. Truman's bold signature and lengthy handwritten inscription are both exceptionally dark, well-executed, and prominently displayed, greatly enhancing the desirability of the piece.

Historical Context:
After leaving the White House in January 1953, Harry S. Truman returned to Independence, Missouri, while maintaining an office in Kansas City. During this period, he personally answered a remarkable amount of correspondence, often adding handwritten notes or inscriptions to otherwise typed letters. These personalized additions are considerably scarcer than standard signed correspondence and provide a direct glimpse into Truman's famously warm and approachable personality.

Written just over two years after leaving the presidency, this letter reflects Truman's continued friendships with supporters across the country. His affectionate handwritten message regarding Fred Whitaker's parents transforms an already appealing signed letter into a far more intimate keepsake, demonstrating the personal touch that has made Truman correspondence especially popular with collectors.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
This letter has been fully authenticated by PSA Authentication.

• PSA Letter of Authenticity Certification Number: AR05357
• Authentic Typed Letter Signed (TLS) by Harry S. Truman.
• Includes Truman's original handwritten inscription reading: "It was a pleasure to meet the Dad and mother. I bet they are proud of you as I am."
• Accompanied by the original PSA Letter of Authenticity with matching certification number and reference image.
• 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 outstanding post-presidential Harry S. Truman letter distinguished by an unusually warm handwritten inscription that elevates it far beyond a standard signed TLS. Combining Truman's bold signature, heartfelt personal sentiments, and full PSA authentication, this is an exceptional collectible for presidential historians, autograph collectors, and admirers of one of America's most genuine and personable presidents.

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.