This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/18/2024
[MCKINLEY, William (1843-1901), association]. INGALLS, Melville E. (1842-1914). Archive of Nearly 120 Letters to Ingalls Related to Ingalls’ Support of William McKinley’s Presidential Run of 1896. [V.p., ca. 1896]. 4to and 8vo autograph letters signed, typed letters signed, autograph notes signed, copies of letters, etc. Most on various stationery. Some general rubbing, creasing, soiling. An illuminating archive of material sent to Ingalls (former Massachusetts state legislator who was president of the “Big Four Railroad” during the 1896 presidential election) in which members of both the Democratic and Republican parties sent Ingalls correspondence, most of whom have signed (none signed by Ingalls or McKinley). Ingalls had been a Democrat, but was against their platform of their radical “Chicago Convention” policies of “free silver,” which he felt would cause a devaluation of American currency and an economic collapse. He supported McKinley, who would eventually win the presidency. “We need two things: first, sufficient revenue to take care of all the expenditures of the Government; second, an honest dollar worth one hundred cents under the stamp of the Government… I can not see any hope of accompanying this result [prosperity] by supporting either the platform or the candidates of the Chicago mob. Much as I regret it, I shall support McKinley, for I believe in his election lies the only hope of the future of our country.” (From the enclosed pamphlet, M. E. Ingalls Will Support McKinley, the Republican Candidate).