Description:

Ronald Reagan
Los Angeles, CA, May 20 1957
Reagan Sends a Childhood Photograph to a Friend. "I'm holding the dog." An Incredible Pairing, Likely Unique, Possibly Youngest Original Photo of Reagan to Surface!

ALS, Los Angeles, CA, dated May 20 1957, written on "Ronald Reagan" stationery and addressed to his childhood friend Milford Smith of Porch Falls, Illinois. Reagan writes reminiscing about good times and includes a snapshot of himself and his brother Neil playing on a horse carriage amongst friends. In fine condition, with expected folds and boldly signed. Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. The ALS measures 7.25" x 10.5".

Included in the collection is an original photograph, 2.75" x 4", of Reagan as a young child with his friends. The back of the photo is noted to have been taken at White Pigeon, Illinois in 1922. Pictured from left to right is Milford Smith, Neil Reagan, Raymond Smith, Marie Pierce and Ronald Reagan. The original photo is in fine condition, with minor rips and notations and some tape on verso.

We are hard pressed to find another example of an original photograph of a young Ronald Reagan and believe this to be one of the earliest original photographs of the future president in existence.

The ALS reads in full:

"Dear Milford

In a few hours I'll be on a train again traveling for G.E. However I wanted to grab a minute to thank you for sending the pictures and for your kind invitation. I'm afraid we won't be able to take advantage of it on this trip. While we do get to Ill for a few days and will be moving around we won't get to the vicinity of Rock Falls or Dixon.
By the way check that snapshot again - I think Neil is the one in the cart and I'm holding the dog. Must catch a train now - again thanks & our best to the family.
Sincerely,

Ronald"

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: 7.25" x 10.5".

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June 26, 2024 10:00 AM EDT
Wilton, CT, US

University Archives

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