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Envelope Addressed to Lewis H. Latimer from W.E.B. Du Bois

Letter
This is a worn, brown envelope addressed to "Mr. L. H. Latimer" at "64 Holly Street, Flushing, L.I." The front of the envelope bears a postmark from "Washington, D.C." dated "Nov 10, 1911," and includes a red two-cent postage stamp featuring George Washington. The back of the envelope has a return address from "W. E. B. Du Bois, 69 Fifth Avenue, New York, N.Y." Additionally, there are handwritten notations in black ink at the top left corner of the back, reading "466 W. 147" and "Apt 30." The envelope shows signs of aging, with creases, slight tears, and discoloration.
Envelope Addressed to Lewis H. Latimer from W.E.B. Du Bois picture number 1
DSC_7340- back of envelope

This envelope is significant as it represents a correspondence between two influential Black historical figures: Lewis H. Latimer, a renowned inventor and draftsman, and W.E.B. Du Bois, the noted scholar, activist, and co-founder of the NAACP. Their connection suggests involvement in intellectual, activist, or professional exchanges during the early 20th century. The presence of Du Bois’ address at 69 Fifth Avenue indicates its link to the NAACP offices, which were located there at the time.

Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]

Front of Envelope: "Mr. L. H. Latimer, 64 Holly Street, Flushing, L.I." Postmark: "Washington, D.C., Nov 10, 6-PM, 1911" Postage: "2 Cents" (Red stamp with George Washington) Back of Envelope: "W. E. B. DU BOIS, 69 FIFTH AVENUE, NEW YORK, N.Y." Handwritten text: "466 W. 147" "Apt 30"