Nikola Tesla FBI Files - Page 80

February 23, 1961   

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Dear [REDUCTED]:

        Your letter of February 14, 1961, has been received, and the interest which prompted you to write is appreciated.

        In response to your inquiry, I wish to advise that our files reflect that 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 effects, we are unable to supply the information you desire.

                                                       Sincerely yours,

                                                       John Edgar Hoover
                                                          Director

Note: No record could be located in Bufiles identifiable with correspondent. 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 felt into authorized 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 who did so, and the above reply is forwarded in answer to related inquiries.

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