December 16th, 1926 Babe Ruth Handwritten & Signed Letter Written to “Little” Johnny Sylvester After His Historic Bedside Visit

Babe Ruth’s Heartfelt Letter to Johnny Sylvester: A Piece of Baseball History

A Legendary Connection

In the annals of baseball history, few stories resonate as deeply as the bond between Babe Ruth and “Little” Johnny Sylvester. This baseball memorabilia piece, an 8-½” x 11” handwritten letter, captures a moment of compassion and hope, penned by the legendary Babe Ruth himself. Dated December 16, 1926, the letter was written just two months after Ruth’s visit to the ailing youngster at his home in Essex Falls, New Jersey.

The Message of Hope

In this poignant letter, Ruth writes, “Dear Johnny, They tell me you are once more up and around ready for the spring training season. Here’s hoping that you will have a very Merry Christmas and that the New Year will bring you a full measure of health and happiness. You and I have a lot to remember about the 1926 World Series and when the Yanks win the Championship next year I hope that will be be with me in person at the Stadium to help win another pennant. Sincerely, ‘Babe’ Ruth.” This message not only reflects Ruth’s kindness but also his unwavering belief in the Yankees’ prowess, a belief that was vindicated when the 1927 Yankees, often hailed as one of the greatest teams in baseball history, clinched the World Series.

Unique Provenance and Condition

The letter is penned in black fountain ink, and in our opinion, Ruth’s signature rates a strong 8. It is written on “Babe Ruth’s coming to town!” letterhead from the Pantage’s Theatre in Portland, where Ruth was performing his touring vaudeville show. The verso of the yellow letterhead features a screenprinted photo of Ruth being mobbed by a sea of adoring fans, accompanied by the text “IT HAPPENS AFTER EVERY GAME.” The letter has three horizontal creases from being folded prior to mailing, yet it remains in EX-NM condition.

Accompanying Documentation

• Full JSA LOA: The letter is accompanied by a Full JSA Letter of Authenticity, ensuring its genuineness.
• Family Provenance: A letter from “Little” Johnny’s son, John Sylvester, Jr., adds a personal touch to this remarkable artifact.

This extraordinary letter is not just a piece of paper; it is a testament to the enduring legacy of Babe Ruth and his impact beyond the baseball diamond. As a cherished item in our sports memorabilia auctions, it offers a unique glimpse into the personal side of one of baseball’s most iconic figures. For those interested in exploring more about such historic items, our appraisals service is available to provide insights into the value and significance of your own memorabilia.

* This text was generated from the original auction listing.