GAJS.COM Web Catalogue Jean Paul Getty

J Paul Getty drops out of Berkeley, and intends to study law

GETTY, JEAN PAUL. (1892-1976). Industrialist, founder of the Getty Oil Company, art collector, and one of America's first billionaires. Remarkably early Autograph Letter Signed, “Your loving son, Paul,” on imprinted Getty family “G” stationary. 4 very full pages, octavo. October 8, 1912. To his father, George F. Getty. Getty writes:

“Dear Papa, I sent you a telegram last night informing you that I had left Berkeley and came back to Los Angeles. Owing to the peculiar requirements at the university re Junior Certificate, my graduating was postponed two years. As I should graduate in 1914 at the very latest I felt that I was wasting my time, so I decided not to be at expense for rent any longer and came home. I only use my room and the breakfast room so everything is in very good shape. I have a Jap to do the cooking and keep things in good shape. He is very competent but does not like hard work any too well. I had a man come from Brock’s as directed. And look at the clocks. He fixed the cord on the big clock and it is running now, but he says it needs a thorough cleaning and oiling necessitating a removal to the shop. this I did not care to do on my own responsibility. The cuckoo clock was thoroughly repaired, total bill, $2.50. I hope to get in communication with Schmutzler this evening as I want him to finish up his contract. Unpainted woodwork rapidly deteriorates and if soaked does not take a good finish. After the painting is done I will have the carpenter put on the doorknobs. I should like very much to have the garage finished and ready for occupancy when you arrive. The lawn does fairly well but only when the Jap is watched continually. I am studying law at the College of Law here, supposed to be one of the best in the country. There is a three year’s course leading to the degree of LL.B. I like it much better than Berkeley. Pendleton is making quite a success as a lawyer handling some very remunerative cases. He has put me up for membership in the University Club. My name is on the bulletin board of the club accompanied by that of Cornelius Wells Pendleton, Jr. I am invited to lunch at the club Friday with Pendleton and Mr. Dyer, of the Committee on Membership. Neil is very popular and influential, if anyone can get me in, he is the one. I hope everything is going well and that you and mother will still soon be home. Your loving son, Paul P.S. Please wire me when you will arrive and I will be down at the station to meet you.”

Very fine condition and a wonderful insightful letter into the mind of the young J.P.Getty.


J Paul Getty drops out of Berkeley, and intends to study law GETTY, JEAN PAUL. (1892-1976). Industrialist, founder of the Getty Oil Company, art collector, and one of America's first billionaires. Remarkably early Autograph Letter Signed, “Your loving son, Paul,” on imprinted Getty family “G” stationary. 4 very full pages, octavo. October 8, 1912. To his father, George F. Getty. Getty writes: “Dear Papa, I sent you a telegram last night informing you that I had left Berkeley and came back to Los Angeles. Owing to the peculiar requirements at the university re Junior Certificate, my graduating was postponed two years. As I should graduate in 1914 at the very latest I felt that I was wasting my time, so I decided not to be at expense for rent any longer and came home. I only use my room and the breakfast room so everything is in very good shape. I have a Jap to do the cooking and keep things in good shape. He is very competent but does not like hard work any too well. I had a man come from Brock’s as directed. And look at the clocks. He fixed the cord on the big clock and it is running now, but he says it needs a thorough cleaning and oiling necessitating a removal to the shop. this I did not care to do on my own responsibility. The cuckoo clock was thoroughly repaired, total bill, $2.50. I hope to get in communication with Schmutzler this evening as I want him to finish up his contract. Unpainted woodwork rapidly deteriorates and if soaked does not take a good finish. After the painting is done I will have the carpenter put on the doorknobs. I should like very much to have the garage finished and ready for occupancy when you arrive. The lawn does fairly well but only when the Jap is watched continually. I am studying law at the College of Law here, supposed to be one of the best in the country. There is a three year’s course leading to the degree of LL.B. I like it much better than Berkeley. Pendleton is making quite a success as a lawyer handling some very remunerative cases. He has put me up for membership in the University Club. My name is on the bulletin board of the club accompanied by that of Cornelius Wells Pendleton, Jr. I am invited to lunch at the club Friday with Pendleton and Mr. Dyer, of the Committee on Membership. Neil is very popular and influential, if anyone can get me in, he is the one. I hope everything is going well and that you and mother will still soon be home. Your loving son, Paul P.S. Please wire me when you will arrive and I will be down at the station to meet you.” Very fine condition and a wonderful insightful letter into the mind of the young J.P.Getty. For more details or to buy this item, please contact us. $1,500
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