World War I Red Cross Leadership William Howard Taft 1918 Letter Introducing Mabel Boardman to U.S. Ambassador in France

Howard Taft

Manuscripts & Autographs

Taft, William Howard. Typed letter signed, March 11, 1918, documenting the leadership and international coordination of the American Red Cross during World War I, written to United States Ambassador to France William G. Sharp. Composed while Taft served as Chairman of the American Red Cross following his presidency, the letter records efforts to expand American humanitarian operations abroad during the first year of U.S. involvement in the war. The correspondence highlights the role of Mabel Boardman in shaping the organization’s structure and effectiveness, providing direct evidence of Red Cross administration and diplomatic coordination during a period of rapid institutional growth.

Taft, William Howard. March 11, 1918. Two pages. Typed letter signed on official American Red Cross letterhead. Addressed to Ambassador Sharp, the letter introduces Mabel T. Boardman as a Red Cross representative traveling to France to observe and report on relief operations. Taft writes: “Miss Boardman really founded the Red Cross, and brought it to its efficient organization for peace purposes down to the beginning of our participation in the war,” and explains that her visit is intended “to bring home to us information as to how we can improve, if possible, the Red Cross functions abroad.” He further requests assistance, noting her “great ability, high character and charming personality,” and emphasizing her longstanding role within the organization, including leadership of the Washington chapter and membership on the National Executive Committee.

Written during the expansion of American wartime relief infrastructure, the letter situates the Red Cross within broader efforts to mobilize civilian support and coordinate international aid following U.S. entry into World War I in 1917. Under Taft and Boardman’s leadership, the organization grew to include millions of volunteers and became a central instrument of American humanitarian engagement overseas. The document provides insight into the administrative networks connecting Washington, diplomatic missions, and field operations in Europe. Original fold lines with light handling wear; overall very good. A clear example of high level Red Cross correspondence linking leadership, diplomacy, and wartime relief.

Item #16976

Price: $750.00