Harry Truman Oversized Photo Signed – With Alben Barkley and Leslie Biffle – Key West 1948

33rd President.

Impressive photo signed by President Harry S. Truman, Vice President-Elect Alben W. Barkley and Leslie L. Biffle – inscribed to the CEO of Bulova Watch Company, Arde Bulova.

Impressive photo showing Truman, Barkley and Biffle in Key West, Florida from November 9, 1948 – just one week after the Presidential election. The photo is inscribed by all three: “To my good friend – Arde Bulova, Alben W. Barkley”. From President Truman: “Best wishes to Arde Bulova, Harry Truman” From Leslie Biffle: “Best wishes to my friend Arde Bulova, Leslie L. Biffle”.

Full framed and matted piece measures 16×20, in dark cherry frame, museum glass. Abrasion to the photograph, right top corner and some wear to frame.

The recipient of this signed piece, Arde Bulova (1887 – 1958), was the son of the founder of Bulova Watch Company. During WWII, the company shifted from watches to defense products, such as precision military watches and aircraft instruments. By the time of Arde Bulova’s death in 1958, Bulova Watch Company controlled about 50% of the United States market for timepieces.

Truman was on vacation at the Little White House in Key West, Florida, when this photograph was taken – showing a triumphant President and Vice President-Elect. Truman loved the casual, laid back time he could spend in FL.

Arriving at Key West in the giddy aftermath of Truman’s dazzling upset election victory in 1948, Vice President-Elect Alben Barkley took in the president’s vivid shirt, jaunty cap, and casual slacks. “Where’s the general store?” he asked. “I want to get an outfit like that.”