This folder contains correspondence and other documents concerning Edison's life story, his response to erroneous newspaper reports about him, his opinions regarding a variety of subjects, and numerous other matters. The letters consist primarily of unsolicited inquiries, but there are also exchanges with friends and business associates along with letters pertaining to clubs, societies, and special events, including Edison's birthday. A few letters contain reminiscences of Edison's early career, including his days as a telegraph operator in Louisville. Among the correspondents for 1911 are author Poultney Bigelow; General Electric president Charles A. Coffin; longtime Edison acquaintance Henry E. Dixey; steel industry pioneer John Fritz; engineer Robert T. Lozier; and attorney and investor Willard P. Reid. There is also an exchange with author Isaac Markens in which Edison states his opinions about Jews.
Less than 10 percent of the documents have been selected. The following categories of documents have not been selected: unsolicited requests for donations, employment opportunities, and interviews; routine requests for biographical and other information, including Edison's advice and opinion. Courtesy of Thomas Edison National Historical Park.