Sold – Signed Photograph of John D. Rockefeller

The guiding force behind the creation and development of the Standard Oil Company, which grew to dominate the oil industry, he became the wealthiest and one of the most powerful men in America. He was also one of the first major philanthropists in the U.S., establishing several important foundations and donating a total of $540 million to charitable purposes.

He got his start in Cleveland, but in the 1870s began to make business trips to New York, and from 1884 on he lived mainly there. However, the Rockefellers still returned during the summer to their Forest Hill home in Cleveland. The book A Visit to Mr. John D. Rockefeller by Neighbors and Friends at Forest Hill, 1905, a limited edition of 425 of which this is number 26, for Jno. H. Flood. The book commemorated a visit on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Rockefeller’s obtaining, at age 16, his first position to work. There are remarks in the book from some of Cleveland’s leading citizens, highly flattering, including one telling the titan of industry that he is the greatest figure Cleveland has ever produced. Rockefeller’s response is also included, saying with gratitude how Cleveland welcomed him as a young man and that he owes his success to its citizens. At back of the book are the printed signatures of those that attended the event, including Mr. Flood.

Of greatest importance is that the book contains a full page sepia photograph of Rockefeller, which is signed by him in full. It could easily be removed for display if desired. This is the first signed photograph of Rockefeller we have had, and just the second of these books that we have seen.