PICARD (Alfred). - Lot 241

PICARD (Alfred). Born in Strasbourg, 1844—died in Paris, 1913. French engineer and administrator. Vice President of the Council of State (1912–1913), a leading figure in public works administration in the late 19th century. Autograph letter signed “A. Picard,” addressed to a colleague. Paris, April 22, 1905. 1 page, in-12 format (1/4 of a sheet). A short but significant letter concerning a tramway project in the Orne department. In it, Picard assures his correspondent of the favorable attention being given by the Public Works Section, promising a prompt review of the file and even a shortening of the processing time if possible. The tone, both administrative and conciliatory, illustrates the internal workings of major decision-making bodies in the field of infrastructure at the beginning of the 20th century. This document is of interest for the history of transportation and public works administration, having been written by a high-ranking official who played a decisive role in the organization of major transportation networks and in the preparation of the 1900 World’s Fair.