S.F. bids for 1928 Democratic Convention

Heading: (California - San Francisco)
Author:
Title: "An Invitation from San Francisco California" (wrapper title) - proposal to hold the 1928 Democratic National Convention in San Francisco, with original signed letters and mounted photographs
Place Published: San Francisco
Publisher:
Date Published: 1927
Description:

8 leaves of stiff paper, on which are tipped or mounted seven original signed letters, one facsimile letter, three original silver photographs, and several mimeographed typed sheets; the final leaf with printing directly on the paper. 40.5x28.5 cm (15¾x11"), yellow printed wrappers; set in modern custom folding leather portfolio with leather ties.

The very rare original elaborate invitation made to the Democratic National Committee from San Francisco for the nominating convention to be held in that city. Following the front wrapper, the first page (on which is mounted a photograph of the water front and Ferry Building from the Bay) states in bold letters: "California the State that Saved Woodrow Wilson in 1916, invites the Democratic National Convention to hold the 1928 Convention in San Francisco." This is followed by a mounted photographic facsimile of a letter from California Governor C.C. Young, and tipped-in original signed letters from San Francisco Mayor James Rolph Jr.; the Chairman of the Democratic State Central Committee H.H. McPike; President of the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce Philip J. Fay; John F. Shea, President of the California Northern Hotel Association; Paul T. Carroll, President of the San Francisco & Tourist League; and others. These are followed by a mounted photograph of the interior of San Francisco's Civic Auditorium when it was the venue of the 1920 DNC, and a view off downtown S.F. looking northwest. The bid was to no avail, however - a last-minute plea by the city of Houston, accompanied by a certified check for $200,000, convinced the party leaders to send the convention to the midsummer heat and humidity of the Bayou City, which would be the southernmost city ever to host a national party convention. Ink name of E.C. Behrens to top corner of front wrapper. There were likely a handful of copies of the present invitation produced, for the top members of the Democratic National Committee. We could locate only one other copy, at the Bancroft Library.
Condition Report: Minor stains and wear to wrappers, a few neat archival tape repairs; very good.