John Hays Hammond TLS

JOHN HAYS HAMMOND (1855-1936) American mining engineer, and father of John Hays Hammond, Jr.. He developed diamond and gold mining in South Africa and California and helped found De Beers, the largest diamond producer in the world. He was the leader of a group of British immigrants who tried to overthrow the South African Republic, and was arrested and sentenced to death in January 1896. He avoided his sentence after paying a $125,000 fine. Typed Letter Signed. May 16, 1930, 1 page. Addressed to T.M. Vangelder, President of the American Association for the Recognition of Merit regretting he cannot join the Advisory Board. Hammond notes he is "retiring from all active work". He signs "John Hays Hammond." 6" x 8". Light paperclip mark to bottom, o/w Fine.