This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/25/2024
TAFT, William Howard (1857-1930). Inscribed Photograph. Washington, D. C.: Harris & Ewing, July 3, 1912. Black and white gelatin portrait photograph with matte finish. Inscribed to Taft’s close friend and political ally, Joseph B. Kealing (1859-1927) beneath the image: “For my friend Hon. Joseph Kealing of Indiana with grateful appreciation and best wishes - Wm H Taft July 3 1912”. Dated during Taft’s presidency. Approximately 13 ½ x 9 ¾”. Photo toned with offsetting around image (lightly affecting inscription), mild marginal rubbing, creasing, glue residue and soiling on verso. Very good. Kealing was a prominent attorney and Republican; he supported Taft in the disputed 1912 convention that pitted the incumbent Taft against the challenger Theodore Roosevelt. Kealing was also the head of the notorious “Fairbanks Machine” political machine in Indiana, which dictated election outcomes (state and federal) for nearly a decade. An excellent association.