^Lot 137 William H. Taft

DS, signed “Wm. H. Taft,” one page, 10.5 x 8.5, no date. Blank “Certificate of Membership to the University Club, of the City of Washington, District of Columbia,” #1022. Light toning, a few trivial edge tears, and some light feathering to the signature, otherwise fine condition. Gold seal is slightly discolored, but crisp and intact. An active club member, Taft was elected as the first President of the University Club on March 11, 1904, just one month after the club’s historic first meeting of 66 university and college alumni, while holding his post as Secretary of War. Taft grew the prestigious club’s membership, leading to physical growth and expansion, and in 1912, as President of the United States, Taft laid the cornerstone for the new facility.