1930s Public Works Activist, Presidential Candidate, Father James Cox

FATHER JAMES RENSHAW COX (1886 – 1950) was appointed pastor at Old St. Patrick’s Church in Pittsburgh, a post from which he would lead several relief efforts to help those most affected by the Great Depression.  In 1932, he led a record-breaking march on Washington, DC, with 25,000 unemployed Pennsylvanians, hoping to incite public works programs, which Franklin Roosevelt ultimately implemented.  The march served as the foundation for forming the Jobless Party, which spread from Pittsburgh to other major cities in the U.S.  Cox was selected to be the party’s Presidential candidate, but withdrew his nomination to support Roosevelt.   Cox became lovingly known as “Pastor of the Poor.”

One page, 8 ¾” x 11”, March 6, 1931, Pittsburgh, to Donald McDonald, discussing his views on fixing the world’s problems: “You will be welcome any time you come to Old St. Patrick’s Parish House, my home.

“If we ever started to right the injustice of the world it would require about 99% of the people working all the time, and it would be difficult to tell where to begin.

“Your letter will be held in strict confidence.

“With every best wish and blessing, I am,

“Yours sincerely,

“Rev. James R. Cox”

Folds, toning. Beautiful large signature with one slight brush mark.

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