Description

 

Sinatra, Frank (1915 – 1998)

‘Let our songs and laughter ring in this beginning of a new era’ — Sinatra writes to Reagan on the eve of his inauguration

Extraordinary typed letter signed by Frank  Sinatra, January 19th 1981, addressed to ‘Mr. President-elect and Mr. Vice-President elect’ Ronald Reagan and George Bush.

In full: ‘On the eve of your inauguration we’re honored to have the privilege to entertain you and your families, our Capital Centre audience, and the American public via national television in the spirit of “The Beginning of a Great New Beginning”. Let our songs and laughter ring in this beginning of a new era of hope, peace, and freedom for the citizens of our land. An era that with your leadership sees our nation regain its respect in the world and sees our nation lead rather than follow. We salute you tonight. On behalf of the Inaugural Gala cast.’ In very fine condition.

Accompanied by a carbon copy of a memo containing Sinatra’s ‘Inaugural Commemoratives ‘Goodie’ Order,’ which amounted to $3,895.50, a vintage ‘Francis Albert Sinatra’ matchbook, a photo of Sinatra with Ray Caldiero, a member of the Presidential Inaugural Committee and an official program for the 1981 Presidential Inaugural Gala, which features this letter and lists Sinatra as ‘Producer/Director and Director of Entertainment’.

A marvellous artefact that brings together two icons of the Twentieth Century. Sinatra and Reagan’s friendship was decades-long and rooted in the years together in Hollywood. Reagan ultimately awarded Sinatra the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1985