This lot is closed. Bidding ended on 12/10/2003.
After breaking Major League Baseball's color barrier, Jackie Robinson was an invaluable advisor to players like Elston Howard, the first black New York Yankee. Aside from this relationship, though, Robinson and Howard became close friends who were always looking out for each other. The letter offered here is terrific evidence of the bond between the two and is written fully in Jackie Robinson's hand in blue ink on the front and half of the back of 7.25" x 10.5" personal stationery from his years as New York's Special Assistant to the Governor for Community Affairs. The incredible content focuses on their son Jackie Jr.'s battle with various drug addictions upon returning from Vietnam in 1967. Addressing the letter to Elston and his wife Arlene, Robinson writes:
"Dear Arlene and Elston, I am sorry to have taken so long to answer your nice letter. As you must know, we have been very busy trying to help Jackie get straightened away. We feel real good at this stage. While his problem is serious he is in great shape with a good attitude. He must overcome some anger but that will come. The past few weeks have been somewhat of a nightmare but we believe our family is strong enough to overcome. It was tough at first but we forgot about what people would think and made up our mind [that] we can't help what goes on in the minds of other people when Jackie is our main concern. We have given of ourselves and we believe we are gaining a son. Sometimes a problem can be an asset [and] we feel strongly that this is happening to us.
I guess the training and coming season will be tough but Elston's drive will make him a great asset to the younger fellows. I wish you the best as well. I can only hope things continue to go well.
Please be assured [that] we appreciate your taking the time to write. It's a good feeling knowing people care and your letter has helped us during a difficult period. Thanks so much for doing so. Sincerely, Jackie and Rae"
Included with the letter is the original envelope with the State of New York's printed return address and the signature "J. Robinson" above it. The envelope is postmarked in New York, NY on March 27, 1968 and is addressed in Robinson's hand to "Mr. Elston Howard / c/o Boston Red Sox / Boston, Mass." All of Robinson's writing on the letter and envelope is essentially flawless, a 9 or near 10 on a 10 scale. The letter has neat folds from being folded into thirds and is otherwise in near mint condition, and the envelope is in excellent condition with some paper removal that does not affect any writing. Combining two of baseball's most important pioneers, this is truly a piece of history. The letter and envelope come with a PSA/DNA letter of authenticity.