1947 Letter from Hank Parkhurst to Clarence Snyder

1947 Letter from Hank Parkhurst to Clarence Snyder — Early AA History

This original 1947 letter was handwritten and mailed by Henry “Hank” Parkhurst, a pioneering member of Alcoholics Anonymous and a friend of Clarence Snyder during AA’s formative years. Written on Parkhurst’s business letterhead and sent to Clarence S. (founder of AA in Cleveland), the letter reveals a personal glimpse into their business dealings, ambitions, and relationship outside AA activities.

In the letter, Parkhurst outlines a sales opportunity he believes could earn Clarence more than $9,000 between June and November of 1947—equivalent to well over $100,000 today. His tone is confident and persuasive, offering both strategy and travel money, and asking Clarence to come to Connecticut to begin the venture. The envelope postmarked May 6, 1947 (New Haven, CT) is included and addressed in Parkhurst’s hand, with forwarding notations to Morristown and Trenton, NJ.

Condition

The letter and envelope show age-toning, minor folds, and expected handling marks. The ink is bold and fully legible. Envelope stamps and postmarks are clear and well-preserved.

This is a rare piece of personal correspondence connecting two influential early AA figures, offering insight into their relationship, their lives outside the Fellowship, and the financial realities facing early members who were often rebuilding careers after sobriety.

Please view all photographs to assess condition.