Description:

Eisenhower Dwight

Eisenhower Incredible Letter on History of Nickname "Ike"!

 

1p TLS signed by 34th U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower (1890-1969) as "Ike" near center. Written at the White House, Washington, D.C. on December 26, 1960. Cream watermarked paper with letterhead gilt-embossed "DDE" and "The White House" at top. Near fine, with expected paper folds. Measures 7.125" x 10.375".

 

With less than a month remaining in his second presidential term, President Eisenhower granted permission to a friend to call him by his nickname "Ike." This special dispensation, which Eisenhower coyly stated was bestowed on no more than 20 "intimate friends," would officially begin on January 21, 1961, the day after his term ended.

 

"During my entire life, until I came back from World War II as something of a VIP, I was known by my contemporaries as 'Ike,'" Eisenhower wrote.

 

He continued: "Whether or not the deep friendships I enjoy have had their beginnings in the ante or post-war period, I now demand, as my right, that you, starting January 21, 1961, address me by that nickname. No longer do I propose to be excluded from the privileges that other friends enjoy."

 

Eisenhower's last comment suggested a certain eagerness to return to civilian life, where he could enjoy simple pleasures denied him during his presidency.

 

Eisenhower, along with his 5 brothers, were apparently all referred to by versions of "Ike" when growing up in Abilene, Kansas. Take for instance older brother Edgar (1889-1971) who was known as "Big Ike," and Dwight, younger by one year, who was called "Little Ike." By adulthood, Dwight was the only brother still referred to as "Ike," which was probably coined as an abbreviation of the last name Eisenhower. Dwight's other career nicknames included the Kansas Cyclone, which referred to his running back football days, and Duckpin, which nodded to his love of bowling. During World War II "Ike" easily segued into "General Ike." The nickname proved invaluable during Eisenhower's political career, enabling catchy slogans like "I like Ike."

 

President Eisenhower's correspondent, Barry T. Leithead (1907-1974), was the chairman and C.E.O. of Cluett, Peabody and Co., an apparel manufacturer. Leithead had worked his way up the ranks from Chicago floor salesman in 1929 to New York corporate chairman in 1966. A zealous Republican, Leithead fundraised for Eisenhower in 1952 and 1956, in the latter year generating $1,000,000 as chairman of the New York State rally. Leithead was also a personal friend and an occasional golfing partner.

 

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