Who Will Be Worthy of Memorialization?

The following cartoon is from the 9 November 1861 issue of Harper’s Weekly.

The caption reads: “BROTHER JONATHAN, who has been getting up a Military Statue, succeeds very well in the Model of the Figure, but wants a Head. Which of our Generals will furnish the Model for that ? He waits for a reply.”

Such a statement reminds us that in 1861, much of Civil War history had yet to be written and many of the biggest heroes had yet to be identified. In November of 1861…who do you think deserved the honor?

Image Credit: Harper’s Weekly.

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The Cumberland

Good morning! Today we bring you an 1862 poem by Herman Melville entitled, “The Cumberland.” Written in March of 1862, Melville lyrivally referenced the fateful sinking of the USS Cumberland…