Description

Description: New York Governor Alfred E. Smith  signed this typed letter to Rev. George B. Kirkwood of Corning, NY in 1923, around the time the Mullan-Gage Act was repealed. The letter reads: “Dear Sir: Your letter to me setting forth your views on the Mullan-Gage Repeal was received at the Executive Chamber sometime in advance of the hearing on the bill, but because of the enormous amount of mail received on this measure, it has been impossible to acknowledge the receipt of your letter before this time. I desire to express my thanks to you for your letter and to enclose a copy of my memorandum setting forth the reasons for my action on the bill.”

The Mullan-Gage Act had incorporated the provisions of Prohibition into New York State law. Smith signed the repeal in June of 1923, though it had little effect since the sale and possession of liquor was still outlawed by the 18th amendment.

Typed on a 10 1/2″ x 8″ sheet of Alfred Smith’s personal gubernatorial stationery imprinted with the state seal of New York. Item #A01791

Al Smith (1873-1944) left school after the eighth grade to help support his family. He got his start in politics by performing unofficial jobs for the Tammany Hall machine and was able to rise through the ranks without becoming tarnished by Tammany corruption. He served as a progressive New York State Assemblyman from 1904 to 1915 before returning to New York City for three years as Sheriff and President of the Board of Aldermen. He served as Governor of New York from 1919 to 1920 and 1923 to 1928, and was the Democratic nominee for President of the US in 1928.

Condition: Mailing fold lines, bottom right corner toned, otherwise very good with a large, bold signature.