Christmas Morning

Civil War Harper's Weekly, December 26, 1863

Harper's Weekly was the primary source of news and information for people who lived during the Civil War. Families would eagerly await each issue, hoping to learn of the progress in the war, and perhaps read something of a loved ones unit. Today, these newspapers are a priceless treasure, and an incredible resource for adding color to the Civil War.

(Scroll Down to See Entire Page, or Newspaper Thumbnails below will take you to the page of interest)

The Chesapeake

Reconstruction

Abraham Lincoln's Amnesty Proclamation

Capture of Lookout Mountain

Fighting Among the Clouds

John Brough

Jeff Davis Cartoon

Battle of Lookout Mountain

Christmas Morning

You are viewing a famous 1863 Thomas Nast Picture of Santa Claus, and Christmas Morning in 1863.  The illustration presents a touching image of Christmas at this critical period of our history.  The Center image is a touching picture of a Civil War soldier coming home Christmas Morning, on Furlough from the war.  He receives a warm greeting from his wife and children.  The inset image to the left is one of the first popular images of Santa Claus.  Santa is shown coming out of the chimney with his large bag of toys, and he is looking at the children. On the right, children are shown with their Christmas Stocking, and gifts on Christmas Morning. The bottom center inset shows the family in prayer around the Christmas Dinner.