The First to Die in the Civil War

You are viewing an original 1861 print depicting the first casualty of the Civil War. The upper left corner of this print contains a picture of Mr. Luther C. Ladd, the first to die in the Civil War. The caption reads, "Luther C. Ladd, A Massachusetts Volunteer killed at Baltimore, April 19, 1861. Note that this is not a reprint, and I absolutely guarantee its authenticity. This leaf was printed on in 1861, within days of the Battle of Baltimore, and the beginning of the Civil War! 

Below the picture of Mr. Ladd is a brief obituary.  The obituary is entitled, "The First Victim of the War".  The obituary goes on to say, "Mr. Ladd was murdered by the rowdies of Baltimore, on his passage through that city on April 19, 1864".  The piece quotes Mr. Ladd as saying, "I shall go for my stars and my stripes any way". 

This is a truly stunning and collectible piece, and would make an excellent addition to any Civil War Collection.  It would make a superb gift for anyone interested in the Civil War, or history in general. 

This leaf is an actual page from the original June 1, 1861 edition of Harper's Weekly, the most popular illustrated newspaper of the day.  It is a rare and highly collectible illustration.  Imagine owning the first edition story and picture of the first to fall in the Civil War! Don't miss this chance to own this important and original piece of history.

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 11x16  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.

The leaf is in very good condition. It has the rich sepia toning that you expect in original material from this period. It has a few spots of light foxing and a few finger smudges in the margins.

I have an extensive collection of Original Civil War Artwork.  Please email me with your special requests.  We are here to Serve You!

Thanks for Looking ! 

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