Nikola Tesla FBI Files - Page 101

October 31, 1972     

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Dear [REDUCTED]:

        Your letter was received on October 26th.

        In response to your inquiry, the effects of Dr. Nikola Tesla were impounded, after his death, by the Office of Alien Property of the Department of Justice and not by the FBI. Since we did not participate in the handling of Dr. Tesla's belongings, I am unable to furnish the information you desire. I am forwarding a copy of your communication and of this reply to the Department of Justice.

                                                       Sincerely yours,

                                                       L. Patrick Gray, III
                                                       Acting Director

NOTE: Correspondent is not identifiable in Bufiles. Bufile 100-2237 reflects that Dr. Tesla was a world-famous electrical inventor, and at the time of his death, all of his personal papers and effects were believed dangerous to the country's security if they fell into unauthorized hands. The book, "Prodigal Genius," by John J. O'Neil, alleges that the FBI took over a certain safe and opened it, appropriating his property. Bufiles clearly indicate that it was the Office of Alien Property of the Department which did so, and the above reply is forwarded in answer to related inquiries. Copy of letter referred to Assistant Attorney General, Civil Division of the Department.

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