Extremely historic and significant 1934 letter with content relating to Smokey Joe Lillard, who along with Ray Kemp was the last African-American to play in the NFL until 1946. A member of the Chicago Cardinals in 1932 and '33, Lillard was known by experts as one of the best halfbacks in football, but due to racial bias common in the era, his playing time was minimal. After the 1933 season, Lillard was released by the Cardinals, and although he diplomatically states in the offered letter that his release was due to the club "reorganizing," the move was widely seen as racially motivated. This three-page handwritten letter was written by Lillard to the Philadelphia Eagles in hopes of being signed in 1934. Letter measures at 5.75x8.5", written by Lillard in bold fountain pen ink. Minimal wear is exhibited throughout. Full LOA from PSA/DNA and from SGC Authentic.