Roosevelt, Franklin D. | A document related to Harry Bridges, with a note from Roosevelt to Frances Perkins

Roosevelt, Franklin D.

Typed notes related to Harry Bridges, with an autograph note by Franklin D. Roosevelt to Frances Perkins  

Lot includes: 1 page (278 x 215 mm). Typed notes, with autograph note in the hand of Franklin D. Roosevelt, initialed "FDR," in the upper margin in pencil, and one emendation in pencil, Washington, D.C., circa autumn 1940, with note in lower margin in ink in another hand; old folds. In custom clamshell case. 

"Raphael P. Bonham, District Director of the United States Immigration Service … states confidentially that he has definite proof that Harry Bridges is a member of the Communist Party and as such under the law should be deported." 

These notes summarize the findings of Ralph P. Bonham, then District Director of the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service. Roosevelt's note to Frances Perkins reads: "F.P. | Very confidential | Will you speak to me | about it? | FDR". In 1933, Roosevelt nominated Perkins as Secretary of Labor. As Secretary, Perkins became the first woman to hold a cabinet position in the United States, and, by extension, the first woman to enter the presidential line of succession. In 1939, Perkins was scrutinized by some members of Congress for refusing to deport Harry Bridges, the communist head of the West Coast International Longshore and Warehouse Union. Bridges was ultimately vindicated by the Supreme Court.