Battle of Rich Mountain

The Battle of Rich Mountain

You are viewing an original 1861 Civil War illustration of the Battle of Rich Mountain, Virginia.  It is an original leaf 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. The date is clearly marked on the front of the leaf.  On the day this leaf was printed, Abraham Lincoln was president of the United States, and the Civil War was raging on.

This is a dramatic illustration, full of Civil War action.  The print shows an incredible battle scene which includes an infantry bayonet charge.  Men can be seen running into battle, with their rifles at the ready. The battle has begun, and the dead and wounded can be seen littered on the ground.  One officer is shown waving his hat in the air, encouraging his men forward.  The line of soldiers recedes into the background as far as the eye can see. The illustration is captioned, "The Battle of Rich Mountain, Virginia." There is an incredible amount of important historic details in this print. 

This is a highly collectible print, rich with historic content.  Original prints such as this are becoming increasingly difficult to find, and I do not know when I will ever be able to offer another Rich Mountain piece.  This leaf will make a handsome display when framed and placed in your office or study.  It will make an excellent addition to your Civil War collection, or a wonderful gift for any student of Virginia 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 10 3/4 X 16 inches.  I have been collecting Civil War Newspapers for over 10 years.  It is a fascinating hobby, and I assure you this piece will get noticed! 

The leaf is in very good condition, and has the rich sepia tone 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 from folks handling the print over the last 130 years.

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