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. Letters from Edison's friends, business associates, and former acquaintances contain reminiscences of the inventor's childhood and family, his work at Menlo Park, and other elements of his career. Also included are appeals in regard to clubs, societies, and special events, along with unsolicited inquiries seeking advice or funds from Edison. Among the correspondents for 1913 are Edison's son, Charles; former associate William S. Andrews, consulting engineer for the General Electric Co.; and industrialist Henry E. Fries of Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
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.