Thomas Edison Initialed Letter

This image is a resignation letter from August 27, 1924, addressed to Charles Edison at Thomas A. Edison, Inc. The letter features a sharp, handwritten note from Edison responding to the employee's departure. The note reads:"This obviates the necessity of firing him - Yes. Dead one."

Details of the Letter

Recipient: Mr. Charles Edison, who at the time was a key leader in his father's company. He later became chairman of Thomas A. Edison, Inc. in 1916 and president in 1926.

Content: The sender (whose signature appears to be Geo. Benaford) states he has accepted a new position in the "Mechanical field" and offers his resignation, effective Saturday, September 13th.

The Reaction: The handwritten note reveals that the company was already planning to fire the individual, calling him a "Dead one," which was common period slang for someone seen as useless or unproductive.

Charles Edison was the son of famed inventor Thomas Edison. While Thomas Edison is most famous for inventions like the light bulb and phonograph, Charles is well-known for his later career in public service, including serving as Secretary of the Navy under President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Historical Context: This letter is particularly significant because it documents the "Dark Period" of 1921–1924, when Edison returned to his company to conduct a massive "purge" of employees.

Blunt Content: Rare letters where Edison expresses strong personal opinions—such as calling an employee a "dead one"—are more desirable to collectors than routine business signatures. Similar blunt letters regarding office inefficiency have been valued at approximately $3,500.

Association: The fact that the letter is addressed to his son, Charles Edison, adds further value due to the well-documented and often tense working relationship between them.