Cairo Illinois

Cairo Illinois

You are viewing an original 1861 Civil War illustration of Cairo, Illinois. It is from an 1861 edition of Harper's Weekly, the most popular illustrated newspaper of the day. Note that this is not a reprint, and I absolutely guarantee its authenticity. This leaf was printed in 1861, and this date is clearly marked on the top of the print. On the day this leaf was printed, Abraham Lincoln was president of the United States, and the Civil War was in its opening chapter. 

This is a rare and highly collectible illustration.  The upper image presents a  view of Bird's Point, Missouri.  The image is captioned, " Bid's Point, Missouri, Opposite Cairo, Now Occupied by Missouri Troops".  The center image shows soldiers unloading artillery from a train in Cairo Illinois.  The image is captioned, "Placing Ordinance in Position at Cairo Illinois".  The lower image shows a distillery being destroyed, and is captioned, "Demolition of the Old Distillery at Cairo, To Make Room for Fort Defiance".  This image shows soldiers tearing down the distillery.  Artillery and other Civil War hardware can also be seen in the picture.

You will not want to miss this print.  When would you ever have another chance at an original Civil War illustration of Cairo Illinois?  It will make an awesome display when framed and placed in your office or study.  It would make a great gift, or an excellent addition to your collection.

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.

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