Your TR Source
President Roosevelt tells James D. Phelan that he recently had lunch with Francis J. and Rebecca W. Heney, who gave him Phelan’s letter. Roosevelt promises to forward the letter to President-Elect William H. Taft.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1908-12-28
Representative Kent wants to take Theodore Roosevelt, Governor Hiram Johnson, Theodore “Ted” Roosevelt, and Francis J. Heney on an outing up the mountains during his visit to California. He warns Roosevelt about the “grafting bunch.” Kent discusses “the great things” Johnson has done for California as governor. While Heney has been brave since his loss (his wife, Rebecca W. Heney, died January 26, 1911), Kent believes time with Roosevelt will bolster him.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1911-02-20
President Roosevelt misspelled Rebecca W. Heney’s last name as “Heany” on a photograph he presented to her, and she would like a new one. Francis J. Heney has supported Roosevelt’s reformed spelling campaign, but fears his relations in Ireland would resent the reforms. Referring to Roosevelt’s imminent departure for Africa, Heney laments that the country will lose its “most valiant leader and fighter” at its “most critical period.”
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1909-02-12
Francis J. Heney meant to write to President Roosevelt several weeks ago to congratulate him on his letter about religious opposition to the election of president-elect William H. Taft. Heney believes it will be useful for years to come. He is still recovering from the gunshot wound he received to his jaw, but his speech has not been impaired and he does not have any scars from the experience. Heney would like to complete the trial he was working on, but his doctors have advised him not to return to work yet. The telegram Roosevelt sent to Heney’s wife, Rebecca W. Heney, helped her through a difficult time, and Heney deeply appreciates it.
Library of Congress Manuscript Division
1908-12-04