Title:
William H. Taft Signed 1905 Typed Letter (TLS) with Humorous Handwritten Postscript – PSA/DNA Certified Auto (Encapsulated #85662271)

Description:
Dated December 6, 1905, this one-page Typed Letter Signed (TLS) by William H. Taft is written on official War Department, Washington letterhead during his time as Secretary of War under President Theodore Roosevelt. The letter, addressed to Dr. Charles W. Richardson, is neatly typed and signed in bold ink “Wm H. Taft.” Beneath his signature, Taft has added a whimsical handwritten postscript: “What I liked was the celery.”

This humorous personal note—likely referring to a gift basket or meal accompanying the cordial—offers a rare and intimate window into Taft’s character, particularly notable given his well-known reputation as a hearty eater. The added line showcases his jovial personality and self-awareness, further enriching the appeal of this already significant piece.

Full transcription of the letter reads:

WAR DEPARTMENT,
WASHINGTON.

December 6, 1905.

My dear Doctor Richardson:

On behalf of Mrs. Taft, I beg to acknowledge the receipt of the bottle of cordial which you were good enough to send her, and to thank you for the same.

Mrs. Taft was just leaving the city when she received it and did not have time to acknowledge it personally.

Very sincerely yours,

Wm H. Taft
[Handwritten below:] “What I liked was the celery.”

Dr. Charles W. Richardson,
No. 1317 Connecticut Avenue.

The letter is preserved in a PSA/DNA slab with the typed content and bold signature clearly visible. Some adhesive staining is present on the reverse but does not affect the display quality of the front.

Historical Context:
At the time of this correspondence, William Howard Taft was Secretary of War and a central figure in Theodore Roosevelt’s administration. Just four years later, he would become the 27th President of the United States. Known for his large physical stature—Taft reportedly reached over 300 pounds during his lifetime—he was often the subject of public fascination regarding his appetite and diet.

The handwritten quip, “What I liked was the celery,” is a delightfully self-aware nod, either genuinely referencing his enjoyment of the vegetable or offered in jest as a humorous contrast to the richer cordial mentioned earlier. Such a comment from the famously rotund and affable statesman brings this letter to life, blending history with humanity. The recipient, Dr. Charles W. Richardson, was a prominent Washington physician and likely acquainted with many leading figures of the time, including the Tafts.

Authentication & Encapsulation:
Certified authentic by PSA/DNA with tamper-evident encapsulation

• Certification Number: 85662271

• Label reads: "LETTER / WILLIAM TAFT / PSA/DNA CERTIFIED / AUTHENTIC AUTO"

• Slabbed in archival PSA holder, preserving both the letter and signature

• 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 signed 1905 letter from William H. Taft, enhanced by his handwritten and comical remark—“What I liked was the celery”—captures not just his political prominence but also his well-documented charm and appetite. For collectors of presidential autographs, American political history, or presidential humor, this is a rare opportunity to own a piece that bridges historical significance with personal personality. It is a presidential collectible with both gravitas and grin.

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.

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