New In: A Theodore Roosevelt Signed Letter on Nonpartisan Governance from 1913

We recently acquired a Theodore Roosevelt signed letter, written in 1913, that showcases Roosevelt as a force for non-partisan governance. In the signed letter, dated July 2, 1913, Roosevelt writes to Roscoe Mitchell, a prominent NY journalist and editor, about the 1913 New York City mayoral election. The letter offers a glimpse into the political dynamics of the era and reflects Roosevelt's thoughts on non-partisan support for capable individuals in government.

In full, the letter reads: "Dear Mr Mitchell: I thank you for your letter. But I don't think it wise for us to get in the position of refusing to support any good man if the Committee of 107, for instance, should be heartily for him. We shall have to support either a Democrat or a Republican. I do not want to be a tag to either one of the two machines, but neither do I want to seem to stand as an obstacle in the path of good government for New-York City. Sincerely yours, Theodore Roosevelt". It is signed “Theodore Roosevelt” in black ink and marked "Private" at the top left corner of the stationary. 

The letter conveys a pragmatic stance that reflects Roosevelt's commitment to public service and effective governance above party allegiance. A champion of American progressivism, Roosevelt was always wary of political machines, viewing them as corrupt influences on governance. We saw this clearly during his 1912 presidential run as the Progressive Party candidate, when Roosevelt broke from the Republican machine to promote reform and integrity in government. The move reflected his commitment to public service and effective governance above party allegiance, which is also front and center in this important letter. 

This letter, rich in content, is archivally framed and ready to hang on a collector’s wall. You can shop the signed letter on our website or in store in our Colorado Springs gallery.