Name/Title
Petition Letter to S. R. Scottron, Esq.Description
This is a handwritten letter by Lewis Latimer dated January 22, 1902, addressed to S. R. Scottron, Esq. The letter is written in cursive on lined paper, detailing the inclusion of a petition for circulation among young men occupying clerical positions. The sender seeks Scottron’s approval before any further action is taken regarding the petition. The letter closes with a request for Scottron to write back regarding this phase of the movement.Context
S. R. Scottron was a notable African American inventor and activist. This letter reflects a formal exchange related to a petition spearheaded by Lewis Latimer in protest against Scottron’s losing his position on the Brooklyn Board of Education. The letter suggests a collective effort to advocate for improvements, reinforcing Scottron’s role as a respected leader in the community.Collection
The Lewis H. Latimer Papers (1870-1929, 1972) [QPL Subgroup], Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]Transcription
184 Adelphi St.Brooklyn, N.Y.Jan. 22, 1902 S. R. Scottron, Esq.598 Monroe St.Brooklyn, N.Y. Dear Mr. Scottron: I herewith enclose a copy of a petition which several young men, occupying clerical positions downtown, propose to circulate for signatures. I suggested that it be submitted to you before any positive action was taken upon it, to make sure that you would have no objections to the proposed movement, and if you will kindly write me with regard to this phase of the matter as soon as you have looked it over, you will oblige Mr. F. Washington, Mr. F. Watkins, Mr. W. Warren, and others as well as Yours truly,[Signature: L. H. L.]
