General Thomas Swearing in the Volunteers!

You are viewing an original 1861 Winslow Homer print showing General Thomas Swearing in the Volunteers in front of the white house.  Note that this is not a reprint, and I absolutely guarantee its authenticity. This leaf was printed in April, 1861, and this date is clearly marked on the front of the print.  On the day this leaf was printed, Abraham Lincoln was president of the United States, and Slavery was still being practiced.  

This is a rare and important piece of history, and is one of the more collectible Winslow Homer prints.  The print shows general Thomas standing in front of the white house.  In front of him are hundreds of eager recruits, each with their right hand in the air, taking the oath to become soldiers.  Standing behind General Thomas is a small group of Union officers.

This print was created within days of the start of the Civil War.  The confederates had just taken Ft. Sumter, and this group of of men responded by joining the union forces to fight for the preservation of the country.  Making this print even more important is that it is the front page of the original April 27, 1861 Harper's Weekly, the most popular illustrated newspaper of the day.  

Adding even further to the importance of this piece is that above the print is an eye-witness account of the attack on Fort Sumter and the start of the Civil war.  This text is entitled, "The Bombardment of Fort Sumter".  It includes the brave and historic quote from Major Anderson. When the Southern forces demanded his 

surrender, he replied, "I have the honor to acknowledge the receipt of your communication, demanding the evacuation of this fort, and to say, in reply thereto, that it is a demand with which I regret that my sense of honor and my obligations to my Government prevent my compliance".  Well, the rest is history.  The story goes on to tell the dramatic account of the Battle of Fort Sumter, which was the initiation of the bloodiest conflict our Nation has ever experienced.

This is an excellent opportunity to own an important piece of history.  Period Winslow Homer prints are becoming increasingly difficult to find as they are being horded by serious collectors.  Pieces like this with important Civil War content are popular with both Homer collectors and Civil War collectors.

This is a stunning print, and will be the center of attention when framed and displayed in your study or office.  The print is in  good condition.  The print has several has several areas of light foxing and some finger smudges in the margins.

Unlike newsprint of this century, these older, original pages do not yellow and fall apart.  The reason is that modern newspapers use an acid based process.   Remnant acid in the paper causes the paper to quickly yellow and deteriorate.   A different process was used in the mid-1800's which yielded an exceptional quality paper that will last for centuries. Special acid free mats should be used when you frame this piece to ensure that it will last another 150 years.  Acid free mats are available at most better frame shops.  If you have any questions related to handling or framing this piece feel free to email me.  The print is approximately 10 3/4 X 16 inches.  I have been collecting Civil War Newspapers for over 10 years.  It is a fascinating hobby, and I find that these pieces really get noticed when framed and displayed on your wall. Civil War period Homer prints are becoming increasingly difficult to find, and particularly prints such as this one with important historical content.  Don't miss your chance to own both a fine piece of art, and a piece of history.