Description:

George H. W. Bush
Washington, DC, ca. 1981-1987
George Bush 5 Signed Letters as VP to "steadfast, instrumental" Supporter
Archive
George H. W. Bush (1924-2018). A collection of five letters signed as 43rd U.S. Vice President to longtime supporter, John Fonteno, Jr. (1926-2004), who was a businessman, educator, and community leader known by many as "Mr. Black Republican". The letters range in date from 1981 to 1987. Varying wear may include expected mailing folds, creases, light toning and minor soiling. Overall, in near fine condition.

The collection comprises, in chronological order by date of letter:

1.) Typed Letter Signed, "George B", 1p, on vice presidential stationery with vice presidential flag in blue at top left, 7" x 9", Washington, D.C., December 8, 1981. To John Fonteno, in full: 'It was great seeing you here. I hope this helps get you back on the SBA Advisory Board. Good luck!'

Fonteno served as a confidant and advisor to presidents, vice presidents, senators, and members of Congress. Born in Galveston, Texas, he taught for forty years as a professor with the Technology Department of TSU. Fonteno served as a member of numerous boards and associations, and owned several businesses, including the first black-owned travel agency in the state of Texas.

2.) Typed Letter Signed, "George", 1p, on vice presidential stationery with vice presidential flag in blue at top left, 7" x 9", Washington, D.C., August 19, 1982. A quick note to Fonteno, reading in full: "I hope this brings some action! Good luck."

3.) Typed Letter Signed, "George B", 1p, on Fund stationery embossed "George Bush" in blue below a gilt embossed Great Seal of the United States, 8.5" x 11", Washington, D.C., March 11, 1986. With original transmittal envelope. To Fonteno, in full: 'I founded the Fund for America's Future last year to help the Republican Party and Republican candidates in the 1986 elections. Your state is so important that I have directed The Fund to send a check for $1,000 to your campaign fund to assist you in your efforts. I will be following your progress closely and I look forward to working with you as we continue our efforts to make the Republican Party the majority party in 1986. I am confident you will be successful and wish you the best of luck in the coming months."

4.) Typed Letter Signed, "George", 1p, on cream stationery embossed "George Bush" in blue below a gilt embossed Great Seal of the United States, 6.25" x 8", Washington, D.C., August 4, 1987. To Fonteno, in full: "Thank you for your recent note and the attached letter from the Houston Forward Times. I have asked Jim Shearer to be in touch with you on how we can help. I believe you worked with Jim during the 1986 elections. Bar and I hope to see you soon and appreciate your steadfast support." Shearer would be the Director of Bush's presidential campaign in Texas.

5.) Typed Letter Signed, "George", 1p, on cream stationery embossed "George Bush" in blue below a gilt embossed Great Seal of the United States, 6.25" x 8", Washington, D.C., October 20, 1987. To Fonteno, in full: "I received your letter of October 13, 1987. Needless to say, I was very upset to hear you were not notified of my announcement. Jack Steel tells me that he cannot understand it, as he personally saw you on a list of individuals to whom notices were sent. It will not happen again - we will also call you in the future. Please know that Bar and I appreciate your steadfast, instrumental support. Best wishes and I hope to see you soon."

On October 13, 1987, Bush announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination for President. He stressed his service as vice president in the Reagan administration, his government experience, and his commitment to continuity.

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: 8.5" x 11"
  • Medium: Archive

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