1888 John L. Sullivan Handwritten Letter (PSA)

Auction: Summer Classic 2022

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1888 John L. Sullivan Handwritten Letter (PSA)

One-page handwritten letter, dated December 27,1888, signed by former heavyweight boxing champion John L. Sullivan, who wasknown as the “The Boston Strong Boy.” In his letter, written on “M. T. Clarke& Co.” letterhead (liquor importer) to A. T. Lumley, Sullivan takes umbrageregarding both his proposed salary and the thought of editorial controlregarding a potential job as a weekly columnist. In part: “. . . . Now asregards the salary that the News wishes to give me. I would not offer myservices for less than $50 a week. If it is not agreeable why they can dispensewith me. . . . I do not wish to have any misunderstanding with you people but Iam not hired to any one as you well know. I have never allowed myself to beused. I can find plenty of money and it does not trouble me in the least to beindependent. I am willing to do what is right with you people and to stick byyou but I can have no boss. . . .” The letter is signed “John L. Sullivan.”Both the text and signature are scripted in black fountain pen and grade 9/10overall. A. T. Lumley was a former editor of the “Police Gazette,” which wasthe main sanctioning body of bare-knuckle fighting at that time. Lumley wasalso a close friend of Sullivan and served as Sullivan’s fight manager duringcertain portions of his career.Sullivan, considered a legendary pugilist in both thebareknuckle and gloved style of fighting, is credited with helping popularizethe latter.  Heparticipated in the last world heavyweight title fight with bare knuckles,beating Jake Kilrain in a grueling battle of 75 rounds, and what is generally considered to have been the first glovedbout for the world heavyweight championship, losing to James J Corbett in the21st round. He is truly an icon and innovator and is often regarded asAmerica's first sporting celebrity and superstar. Indeed, it can be said thathis popularity was responsible for assisting the advancement of Americansporting journalism and coverage. He is an original member ofthe International Boxing Hall of Fame in the first induction class of 1990.The letter (6x9.5”) is slightly toned and displays two horizontal folds. Minoredge tears affect the fold lines. In Very Good to Excellent condition.Accompanied by a “Police Gazette” envelope that the letter was stored in over the years (notthe original mailing envelope). Full LOA from PSA.