The William J. Buch Papers contains photographs, scrapbook pages, and personal letters to and from William J. Buch, also known as Joe. Several letters and items pertain to his likeness to Franklin D. Roosevelt, including correspondence with the White House and the Franklin D. Roosevelt Library. Other items include documents and photographs of his service in World War I, Lancaster County boxers, and his son's World War II service.
Admin/Biographical History
William "Joe" Buch served in World War I. He founded Buch's Pharmacy at the corner of Charlotte and King Streets in Lancaster, Pa. and later ventured into the sporting goods business. Mr. Buch was known as a Franklin D. Roosevelt double and wrote often to offer support to the President. Mr. Buch was very active in the local and state Democratic Party. He posed as Roosevelt's twin at many political events. More information is available in Folder 17.
Four men, third from left identified as "#3 with cigar, Joe Buch, Camp Meade, Md. Now Fort Meade." Note attached to group of pictures: "Stan Buch presents this box of memorabilia that belonged to his father "William J. Buch, founder of Buch's Pharmacy) to the Lancaster County Historical Society. Included are World War I materials related to the 79th Division; letters and other materials related to William Buch's reputation as President Franklin D. Roosevelt's double during Roosevelt's terms in office and other political memorabilia; material related to Leo Hauck and other early 20th century boxers in Lancaster; and a copy of an article William Buch sent to "Ripley's Believe It or Not.'"
Provenance
Note attached to group of pictures: "Stan Buch presents this box of memorabilia that belonged to his father, William J. Buch, founder of Buch's Pharmacy) to the Lancaster County Historical Society."