Description
From President George H.W. Bush, a signed photograph and letter on White House stationery, to Fran and Eddie Chiles, owner of the Texas Rangers baseball team.
Full piece measures 22.5″ x 16.25″, gold frame with black trim, white trim matte. Not examined outside of frame.
Inscribed photograph of President Bush and First Lady Barbara Bush: “To Fran + Eddie / These two Rangers fans love you / George Bush.” White House TLS reads: “April 29, 1991 / Dear Fran and Eddie, They’re a little late, but here are a couple of souvenirs of a good time with good friends. Thanks for everything. Warmest regards. Sincerely, George.”
On April 8, 1991, President George H.W. Bush, the former first baseman for the Yale Baseball Team, threw out the opening day pitch for the Texas Rangers. He famously bounced it in the dirt, which he laughed off. The recipient of this collection was Eddie Chiles (1910-1993), the founder the Western Company of North America. Chiles owned the Texas Rangers baseball team until 1989, when he sold the team to a group of investors, including future president George W. Bush. He remained an influential figure in the oil industry and conservative circles until his death in 1993.