Historical Hockey Memorabilia Auction March 2011
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 3/29/2011
Much rarer than the "Derby" or "F.A. Stanley" versions of the man's signature, this important early document is signed "Stanley of Preston" by Fred Stanley, the father of the Stanley Cup. Although he never witnessed a championship game, Frederick Arthur Stanley, Lord Stanley of Preston, Governor General to Canada and the Earl of Derby, purchased for the price of 10 guineas a trophy bearing his name for presentation to the amateur hockey champions of Canada. The Stanley Cup has since become the symbol of professional hockey supremacy. As Lord Stanley died in 1908 his autograph is usually absent from even the most complete of Hall of Fame collections. This wonderful and scarce find is an ancient 4.5 x 7.5" four-page handwritten letter on linen paper, dated November 25, 1886. The document is on Board of Trade letterhead (Stanley served as President in 1886) and is addressed to Captain Sidney Webb, asking for his support at a conference of ship owners. In excellent condition with expected folds and that very uncommon form of Stanley's mark.
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