An interesting insight into the life of the Fife man who rose from poverty to become the richest man in the world is being sold in Perth.
The two-page hand-written letter from Andrew Carnegie was sent from New York to a friend and business associate in Scotland, James Arthur, in December 1880.
Contained in the original personalised envelope on Carnegie’s official headed notepaper, the letter touches on many facets of the life of the emigrant from Dunfermline who found fame and fortune in America.
On a personal level he thanks his “dear friend” for the present of a cake, before going on to discuss the political climate in Ireland, and ends his letter with mentions of the business that made his fortune steel.
Carnegie also describes himself as “Scotch to the backbone” and talks of his desire to return to Scotland to live.
One of the captains of industry of 19th century America, he helped to build the formidable US steel industry.
Later in life when he sold his business, he gave his fortune away to cultural, educational and scientific institutions for “the improvement of mankind”.
The letter, which had been handed down in the family of the original recipient, is being sold at Lindsay Burns and Company auctioneers at King Street, Perth, on Tuesday, the first day of a two-day sale.
Expert Nick Burns said: “The letter gives a personal insight of a prominent Victorian industrialist and his philosophy.
“Items such as this can pinpoint a certain figure at a moment in history. People will be interested in the intimate side of the shrewd businessman.”
Mr Burns already has experience of selling items belonging to Carnegie. In 2010 a table which had belonged to him and was at one time in his New York home realised more than £15,000 at the Perth auction house.
The letter represents a more affordable item for the collector, with a pre-sale estimate of £100 to £200.
Items from the sale will be on view today from 9am to 2pm, Sunday from 1pm to 3pm and Monday from 9am to 5pm.
Photo by Angus Findlay Photographers