Title:
1918 TLS by William H. Taft on National War Labor Board Letterhead – PSA/DNA Slabbed & Certified

Description:
Offered here is a Typed Letter Signed (TLS) by William H. Taft, 27th President of the United States and 10th Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court, dated September 24, 1918, during his service as co-chairman of the National War Labor Board. The letter is typed on official National War Labor Board letterhead, measures approximately 8.5" x 11", and is boldly signed “Wm. H. Taft” in ink. The letter is slabbed and authenticated by PSA/DNA, with certification number 85473988.

Full Transcription:

NATIONAL WAR LABOR BOARD
WASHINGTON

September 24th, 1918

My dear Mr. Hale:

I thank you for your suggestions in reference to the conjoined affairs of a League of Nations. I have not myself given much attention to that part of a League of Nations, but I will retain what you have written me with the view of using it when we enter that field.

Sincerely yours,
Wm. H. Taft

Mr. Matthew Hale, Vice-President,
Liberty Shipbuilding Company,
110 North Broad St.
Philadelphia, Pa.

Historical Context:
This letter was written in the final months of World War I, during which William H. Taft was appointed by President Woodrow Wilson to serve as co-chair of the National War Labor Board. The Board was established in 1918 to mediate labor disputes that might hinder the war effort, playing a critical role in maintaining industrial peace during wartime.

The content of this letter touches upon the League of Nations, a concept then gaining momentum as part of Wilson's vision for postwar peace. Although Taft had previously clashed with Wilson politically, he supported the idea of a League and became an influential voice in its development. This letter reflects Taft’s early contemplation of the League's structure and mission, revealing the beginnings of U.S. intellectual and political engagement with internationalism.

Authentication & Encapsulation:

• Certified by PSA/DNA

• Certification Number: 85473988

• Encapsulated in a PSA/DNA slab labeled "LETTER / WILLIAM TAFT / AUTHENTIC AUTO / PSA/DNA CERTIFIED"

The letter is in well-preserved condition, exhibiting age-toning and moderate staining, but remains fully legible with a strong, clear signature.

Closing Appeal:
This is a rare and historically resonant piece from one of the few Americans to have led both the Executive and Judicial branches of government. Taft’s reflections on the League of Nations in the waning days of WWI provide a compelling snapshot of early 20th-century global diplomacy. Fully authenticated and preserved, this signed letter is a standout collectible for presidential historians and serious autograph collectors alike.