The Thomas A. Edison Papers Digital Edition

This letterbook covers the period March-May 1915. Most of the correspondence is by Edison and William H. Meadowcroft. The letters mainly relate to World War I, the disruption of markets for the carbolic acid (phenol) used in the manufacture of phonograph records, and Edison's production of chemicals for his businesses, including the establishment of benzol absorbing plants in Johnstown, Pennsylvania, and Woodward, Alabama. Other letters pertain to tariff regulations; phonographs and recordings; Edison's winter home in Fort Myers, Florida; visitors to the laboratory; and books received by Edison. There is also a letter of recommendation of behalf of D. F. Van Marle, a chemist who worked at Edison's laboratory, along with a letter proclaiming Edison's support for women's suffrage. The correspondents include longtime Edison associate William H. Mason, R. B. Owens of the Franklin Institute, Edward R. Stettinius of J. P. Morgan & Co., and representatives of Mitsui & Co.

The spine is stamped "Letters" and is marked "T.A.E. from March 31- 1915 to May 3- 1915." The number "41" also appears on the spine. The book contains 700 numbered pages and an index. Approximately 15 percent of the book has been selected.