Warren G. Harding press release, September 1, 1920

Prepared for publication on September 1, 1920, this press release includes several stories that speak to Senator Warren G. Harding's character and ideals, as well as his importance to the Marion, Ohio, community. Stories include two blind World War I veterans from Wyandot County visiting Harding the day of a front porch speech, Harding's father George Tryon Harding as the "poor people's doctor," words from a former pastor of Harding's church, good omens of fine weather on Harding's speech days, people collecting buckeyes from Harding's favorite tree as souvenirs, and the Florence Harding Division No. 565 in Victoria, Virginia. This document is part of the Warren G. Harding Papers (MSS 345). This collection includes correspondence, business records, and other materials documenting Harding’s business career as owner and editor-in-chief of The Daily Marion Star, as well as the various stages of his political career. A significant portion of the collection, and what’s available on Ohio Memory, highlights his 1920 presidential campaign, spanning just before publicly announcing his candidacy to handily defeating Ohio Governor James M. Cox in the election. Correspondents include both Ohio and national businessmen, political figures, and ordinary citizens writing with questions, support, congratulatory notes, and campaign advice. Some of the most interesting insights into the tumultuous political climate in the U.S., the extreme factionalism within the Republican Party in Ohio, and Harding’s campaign strategies are described in letters between Harding and his campaign manager, Harry M. Daugherty. Some of the topics addressed include women’s suffrage, Prohibition, the League of Nations, African American representation and issues, and lingering peace negotiations following World War I