February 2017 Auction Ends Thursday, February 23rd, 5pm Pacific
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 2/23/2017
Interesting letter signed by 8 Hollywood heavyweights regarding the Community Chest, an important but controversial charitable endeavor during the 1930s-40s. In this letter dated 2 April 1940 to MGM Vice President Eddie Mannix, the following individuals sign in support of the charity: actors Carole Lombard, Gary Cooper, Joel McCrea, Norma Shearer, Ronald Colman and Charles Boyer, and directors Frank Capra and William Wellman. Letter reads in part, ''...Those of us whose names appear in printed form here met the other night to discuss confidentially and fearlessly our relationship to the Community Chest and the problems, doubts and responsibilities arising out of the matter from an industry standpoint. Some of us came to oppose, to fight. During a four hour meeting, with no outside influence present, we learned for the first time Community Chest facts which converted us as one to the cause of this organized charitable distributing agency that makes possible 88 seperate charities within our community. / We learned that 94 cents out of every dollar goes into the hands of the needy; that only 6 cents out of each dollar is required for administrative expenses. / We learned we may designate, in giving our contribution to the Community Chest, the charity or charities of the 88 to which we wish our money to go, in full or in part. / We learned this community of which we are a part, is in need of our help and the Chest IS the best means with which to handle the serious problems of those in need. / We learned that an educational program is needed in behalf of the Community Chest so everyone else knows, as we know now, that the Chest truly deserves our support. / We want you to be with us, help us. / It is imperative for some of us to give a little more to make up our $200,000 shortage for the Community Chest. / If there are any questions you would like to ask, won't you please call anyone of us?...'' Letter measures approximately 8'' x 10.5'', beautifully framed with moire silk matting to a size of 42'' x 33''. Letter has not been examined out of frame but appears near fine, with folds.
1940 Letter Signed by Carole Lombard, Gary Cooper, Joel McCrea, Norma Shearer, Frank Capra, Ronald Colman, Charles Boyer & William Wellman -- ''...to discuss confidentially and fearlessly...''
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