Messersmith, G.S.
Date
2011-06-15
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
University of Delaware Library, Museums and Press
Abstract
Description
Messersmith was dumbfounded on receiving telephone call from President Roosevelt asking him to go to Mexico as Ambassador; had enjoyed stay in Cuba and had expected to remain several years; made plans to go by ship, but was advised by naval attaché that German submarines had been sighted between Cuba and Florida; as they had made no attacks it was obvious they were waiting for one particular ship and it was feared Messersmith might be their target; received same advice from Department; flew to Miami about Feb. 10, 1942 and went from there by train to Mexico City; had pleasant trip to San Antonio, but from there on was crowded into one drawing room with Mrs. Messersmith and her mother, Mrs. Mustard, and favorite dachshunds; was met at Laredo by Consul and other consular officials as well as Mexican officials; attended reception in Consulate before train left for Mexico City; was met there by members of Embassy staff and usual Mexican officials; arrangements had been made for the Messersmiths to stay at the Hotel Genova, as the Embassy residence was not livable; nothing had been done toward repair and upkeep during the whole nine years of the [Josephus] Daniels residency; residence ideally located and had large, airy rooms and very nice garden; installation of central heating and complete refurbishing would make it a very suitable Embassy residence, but would require several months; presented matter to Department and U.S. government agreed to make alterations and repairs.
Keywords
Messersmith, George S. (George Strausser), 1883-1960.