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Two letters from Keller to Sir Ewen Waterman, with a short autograph letter signed from Keller's assistant, Polly Thompson. The Keller letters are three pages and two pages respectively, each signed "Helen Keller" in her characteristic hand. Helen Keller (1880?1968) became deafblind at nineteen months old but went on to become a world-renowned author, political activist, and lecturer. By 1948, when the first of these letters was written, she had traveled all over the world advocating for those with disabilities, women's suffrage, and workers' rights. In 1920, she was one of the original founders of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU). The first letter, typed on South Australian Hotel letterhead and dated July 10, 1948, effusively thanks Waterman for a birthday celebration in Adelaide. "What shall I say of the unexpected, dazzling birthday party you gave me here, so full of warm Australian hospitality and delight!" Keller writes. She describes a visit with artist Hans Heysen, noting "the joy of talking with one who has such love and understanding of gum-trees!" The letter concludes with an eloquent appeal for deaf advocacy, urging Waterman to persevere "until the public accepts them as free, normal citizens, and until they themselves feel the Divine Impulse that shall lift them above all affliction." The second letter, from Arcan Ridge, Westport, dated December 14, 1952, thanks Waterman for matching sweaters: "Every time my sweater and I bid defiance to King Frost, I shall feel not only cosy and pretty but also happy in your kind thoughts enfolding me." Keller also shares her fascination with recent Australian developments, having read "The Dreaming" in The New Yorker about North Australia's uranium discoveries. Accompanying these is an autograph letter signed "Polly" from Thompson, Keller's companion and secretary, dated December 14, 1952. Thompson mentions the "throes of film taking," referring to the making of a documentary about Keller. The recipient, Sir Ewen Waterman (1901-1982), was then president of the South Australian Adult Deaf Society, a position he would hold until 1975. Contemporary newspaper accounts confirm that Keller's birthday celebration followed a formal reception at Adelaide Town Hall where Waterman was among the distinguished guests. All letters show some age toning but are otherwise in fine condition. Thompson's letter is accompanied by a typed transcript.
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