Name/Title
Letter from Lewis H. Latimer to Thomas A. Edison (June 16, 1888)Description
This is a handwritten letter from Lewis H. Latimer to Thomas Edison, dated June 16, 1888, on official Edison Electric Light Co. letterhead. The letter was sent from the company’s executive offices at 16 and 18 Broad Street, New York, and is addressed to Thomas A. Edison at Llewellyn Park, Orange, New Jersey.
Latimer writes in anticipation of the Fourth of July and proposes a patriotic speech for Edison's phonograph to record for the celebration. The letter highlights Latimer’s involvement not only in engineering and patents but also in the cultural applications of Edison’s innovations.
The letter contains annotations and edits, suggesting it may have been reviewed or revised. It also provides insight into the close professional relationship between Latimer and Edison, showcasing Latimer’s engagement in both technical and creative contributions to Edison’s projects.Context
During the late 19th century, Lewis H. Latimer was one of the key engineers and draftsmen working with Edison’s team, particularly in the development of electric lighting and patent drawings. This letter demonstrates Latimer’s multifaceted role, extending beyond engineering to public relations and speechwriting for Edison’s technologies.
The reference to the phonograph—one of Edison’s major inventions—illustrates how Edison’s company was considering ways to integrate recorded speeches into national celebrations, a novel idea at the time. Latimer’s suggestion reflects both his loyalty to Edison’s vision and his ability to think beyond technical applications into broader cultural and societal uses of technology.Collection
Latimer Family Papers (1870-1996 ) [QPL Full Collection]Transcription
Edison Electric Light Co.
Executive Offices, 16 and 18 Broad Street, New York
June 16, 1888
Thomas A. Edison, Esq.
Llewellyn Park, Orange, N.J.
Dear Sir,
As the Fourth of July is near at hand, I venture to hope that you may deem the enclosed lines, a fit and proper speech for the Phonograph to make on this celebration of that day.
Hoping that you will not consider this a waste of your valuable time in reading,
I am very respectfully,
Yours,
L. H. Latimer