Date: April 18, 1930
Context: John graduated from Amherst in the spring of 1928. By the fall of 1928, he started as a freight clerk at the New Haven and Hartford Railroad in Connecticut, earning about $28 a week according to the New York Times. In a 1947 Chicago Daily Tribune article, John said, “I wanted to see if I could go on my own… I want to prove to myself that I can get along without being pushed—without being the boss’ son.”
My dear John:
It has taken longer than I expected to get the papers from the Trust Co. If you need any money let me know any time.
I was very much gratified to know you were able to take care of a temporary emergency yourself. It is a fine beginning for you. Such things are always coming up and the prudent man realizes it and tries to be prepared to meet them.
If men are laid off it will be those who are least efficient. Just be useful enough and they will always want you.
Your father,
(Gave Father’s signature to Kenneth R. Cole, 4-7-36)
Citation: Coolidge Family Papers, Vermont Historical Society
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The Coolidge Foundation gratefully acknowledges the volunteer efforts of Richard Link, who prepared this document for digital publication