Letter to Lewis H. Latimer from J.R. Scottron

Letter

Lewis Latimer House

Name/Title

Letter to Lewis H. Latimer from J.R. Scottron

Description

This is a handwritten letter addressed to Lewis H. Latimer from S. R. Scottron, dated January 23, 1902. The letter discusses the exclusion of Latimer and his associates from direct representation in the School Board, mentions Mayor Low, and references political pressure regarding appointments. Scottron expresses his support for Latimer and his associates and requests a copy of the communication sent to the Mayor. The letter is written in elegant script and provides insight into political and social dynamics of the time.

Context

Samuel R. Scottron, an African American inventor and businessman, was a contemporary of Lewis H. Latimer. Both men were significant figures in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, advocating for African American representation in professional and civic spaces. This letter thanks Latimer for his efforts to protest and petition against Scottron’s removal as the only Black representative on Brooklyn’s Board of Education, but also counsels him to remember Mayor Seth Low’s previous services to New York City’s African American communities.

Collection

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

Transcription

Page 1: 598 Monroe St. Brooklyn, Jan 23 / 02 My dear Mr. Latimer, A most excellent "production" is what I would write across the face of the communication which you and your associates propose to forward to Mayor Low, in regard to the loss we have sustained in being omitted from direct representation in the School Board. That article is A1, and will bear criticism from every standpoint; scholarship, tone, truthfulness, thoughtfulness, earnestness. I wrote last night to Mr. Swanstrom, a letter which you would be surprised could you note the similarity of state- Page 2: -ment in acknowledging the past service to our people, in fact, to all the people, rendered by Mayor Low. This service we should not forget now when political pressure on the part of a strong voting machine, headed by a Lieut. Governor, has compelled him to alter his course somewhat. It is a fact that both President Swanstrom and the Mayor wished to appoint me. I am nevertheless pleased to note that my own associates, at the end of an eight years service, so strongly endorse me. I am and shall ever be under greatest obligations. I would appreciate it very much if you could send me a copy of the communication to the Mayor, which Page 3: I shall at once re-enclose to you. Yours truly, S. R. Scottron To Messrs Latimer, Zeppe, Warren, Watkins, Washington & others.