A Unique Travel Document with Hoover’s Signature

Travel Document Hoover’s Signature
I have come across a document that bears the signature of Herbert Hoover, who served as the administrator of the United States Food Administration. The document in question is a large quarto size and appears to be partially printed. It does not specify any particular location, but it does bear the seal of the United States Legation in Berne, Switzerland on the lower right corner. The date of the document is December 26, 1918, and it includes a photograph of an individual named Charles H. Welter.

U.S. Food Administration Unique Travel Document Hoover’s Signature

The United States Food Administration (1917–1920) functioned as an independent Federal agency. During the nation’s active participation in World War I, it took on a crucial role. Its primary responsibility was overseeing the production, distribution, and preservation of food within the U.S. With the aim of preventing monopolies and hoarding, the administration sought to maintain strict government control over food resources through voluntary agreements and licensing arrangements.

In 1917, President Woodrow Wilson chose Hoover to lead the U.S. Food Administration. As a symbol of the sacrifice necessary for all Americans, Hoover declined to accept a salary. Hoover’s name became linked with America’s efforts to redirect food resources for feeding soldiers being deployed to Europe and supplying food to U.S. allies.

By promoting the belief that food could win the war, Hoover appealed to patriotic sentiments and encouraged Americans to conserve food, reduce waste, and limit the consumption of various food products. To “Hooverize” became a catchphrase used amongst Americans when discussing food preservation efforts.

American Relief Administration Unique Travel Document Hoover’s Signature

After the armistice in Europe, The United States Food Administration became unnecessary. President Woodrow Wilson’s suggestion led to the agency’s transformation into the American Relief Administration. Which received official approval through an Act (Public, No. 274, 65th Congress) on February 25, 1919. The purpose of this transformation was to support the reconstruction of Europe.

The Travel Document

Although the document does not explicitly bear the word passport in its title, it serves as some kind of travel document (in the form of a Safe Conduct?) issued by the U.S. Food Administration.

Herbert Hoover, who would later become the 31st U.S. President, personally signed it, and the issuance took place at the U.S. Legation in Berne, Switzerland.

“To all to whom these presents shall come, greeting: The bearer hereof Charles H. Welter a citizen of the United States, whose photograph is affixed hereto, is traveling on behalf of the United States Food Administration for the sole purpose of food relief.

I, therefore, request that he be permitted to pass freely, with all property under his control, and that there be extended to him all friendly aid, protection, and information which may forward the purpose of his Mission. In testimony whereof, I, Herbert Hoover, United States Food Administrator, have hereunto set my hand this twenty-sixth day of December 1918.”

Signed by Herbert Hoover and Charles H. Welter.

Reference:
United States Food Administration records
The Minister in Switzerland to the Secretary of State

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