Correspondence, With Handwritten Replies to Inaugural Class of Hall of Fame Players

This group of 11 letters features correspondence between Paul Wunder of New Orleans and Hall of Fame baseball players. In 1939, Mr. Wunder wrote each of these living players just after their inauguration, asking for their autograph on his daughter's collection of first-day Baseball Centennial first day covers. Per the last lot, they all complied. In seven of Mr. Wunder's letters, they were sent back with handwritten notes (Alexander and Speaker are secretarial) and full signatures from Ruth, Collins, Lajoie, Alexander, Johnson, Young and Sisler. Ruth did not send a note, but wrote out his correct address. Collins wrote, "I am very glad to oblige." Lajoie's includes a handwritten return address. Kenesaw Landis (who was not in the Hall of Fame yet but was the major league commissioner at that time), Cobb and Mack all wrote separate letters, Cobb and Speaker (envelope addressed in Speaker's hand) on personalized stationery (Cobb's fully handwritten), Landis and Mack typewritten and hand signed on baseball stationery. There is also a signed envelope by Honus Wagner, but no letter or note. There are 14 letters in total and they are in excellent condition overall with some discoloration to the paper from age and minor wear to the edges. LOA from PSA/DNA.