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Offered here is an original autograph letter signed (ALS) by Julia Magruder (1854–1907), noted American novelist, dated March 20, 1900 from Baltimore, Maryland.
In this letter, Magruder writes to her publishers requesting copies of her books to contribute to the newly established “Poe Alcove” at the University of Virginia, created in honor of Edgar Allan Poe, one of UVA’s most famous students. Magruder emphasizes her wish to comply with the request and notes the value of such a donation for both the students and the promotion of her works. She asks that the books be sent to her Washington, D.C. residence at 1734 Columbia Road.
Content Highlights:
Strong literary association: mentions the Poe Alcove at UVA, a memorial to Edgar Allan Poe.
Full signature: “Julia Magruder” with address.
Clear evidence of the professional and literary networks of a female American author at the turn of the century.
Historically significant reference to both Poe and UVA’s efforts to preserve his legacy.
About Julia Magruder:
Magruder was a popular 19th-century American novelist, best known for Across the Chasm (1885), The Princess Sonia (1895), and A Magnificent Plebeian (1905). Her works often sought to reconcile North and South after the Civil War, and in 1907 she received the Cross of the Order of Franz Joseph from Austria-Hungary — a rare international honor for an American woman writer.
Condition:
Two pages on folded sheet, with old punch holes at the top, otherwise in very good condition. Boldly signed.
A fine literary letter linking Julia Magruder, her publishers, and Edgar Allan Poe’s enduring legacy at the University of Virginia.
📦 Will be shipped with care, in protective sleeve and rigid mailer.
