May 16th Rare Autograph Auction
Remarkable DS, five pages, 8.5 x 13, July 31, 1917. Memorandum of agreement between Henry M. Leland and Wilfred C. Leland, and George H. Layng, W. Rex Johnston, and William T. Nash, in which the former party intends to "organize a Michigan corporation for the purpose of conducting a machine shop and of manufacturing, assembling and dealing in motors, transmissions, parts and accessories for motor cars, motor boats, motor cycles, aeroplanes, internal combustion engines, etc. etc." Having prepared the necessary Articles of Association for such a corporation, the Lelands desire to associate themselves with the named second party of Layng, Johnston, and Nash, and organize a "Michigan corporation…to be known as 'Lincoln Motor Company,' having a capital stock of One Million, Five Hundred Thousand Dollars ($1,500,000.00)." Other details of the original stockholder contributions and holdings are outlined in the terms of formation. Signed neatly at the conclusion in fountain pen by Leland, his son, and the additional parties of interest. The document retains its original blue file backing. In fine condition.
Henry M. Leland (February 16, 1843 – March 26, 1932) was an American machinist, inventor, engineer, and automotive entrepreneur. He founded the two premier American luxury automotive marques, Cadillac and Lincoln.
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Henry M. Leland, The birth of the 'Lincoln Motor Company'
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