An ugly page from American history surfaces with this James Earl Ray typed letter signed. Ray confessed to the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. and spent thirty years in prison for the crime until his death in 1998. Dated 1/27/77, the offered letter is addressed to Ray's attorney Jack Kershaw, a well-known segregationist, who tried in vain to get Ray a new trial based on Ray's claim that King's shooting was actually the result of a widespread conspiracy. Written while Ray was incarcerated at the Brushy Mountain State Penitentiary in Petros, TN, the letter's content mentions contact with writer Donald Freed, in regards to the possibility of releasing portrayal rights of Ray for a potential film. Ray's letter concludes with his prisoner number "#65477" and a ("9") strength signature. Auction LOA from James Spence/JSA.

Opening Bid $50.