Title: Harper's Weekly April 16, 1870 Thomas Nast Senator Tweed Tammany The Greek Slave General George H Thomas
About This Piece of History 🕰️ This April 16, 1870, edition of Harper’s Weekly is an absolute powerhouse for political history and Thomas Nast collectors. It features a relentless double-barreled attack on "Boss" Tweed and the corruption of Tammany Hall, including a brilliant satirical parody of a famous work of art. Beyond the politics, the issue pays tribute to one of the Union's greatest heroes, Major General George H. Thomas, and continues the paper's deep dive into the realities of transatlantic steamship life. 📜✨
Featured Highlights in This Issue: 🎨 Thomas Nast’s "The Greek Slave" (Tammany): A magnificent full-page Nast illustration. In this clever and scathing parody of Hiram Powers’ famous statue, Nast uses the "Greek Slave" motif to symbolize the taxpayer's subjection to the Tammany Hall machine. It is one of Nast’s most artistic and impactful social commentaries. 🗳️ Thomas Nast’s "Senator Tweed in a New Role": Another full-page Nast masterpiece specifically targeting William "Boss" Tweed. These two full-page prints in a single issue make this a premier artifact for those documenting the fall of the Tweed Ring. ⚔️ Major General George H. Thomas: Includes a significant 1/3 page portrait of the "Rock of Chickamauga." Published shortly after his death, this tribute honors one of the most successful and steadfast Union generals of the Civil War. 🚢 Steamship Life & Steerage: Three compelling illustrations documenting the maritime experience: "Steerage Passengers": A half-page look at the gritty reality of 19th-century migration. "Taking it Easy" & "Oiling the Binnacle": Two 1/6 page vignettes capturing the daily rhythms of crew and passenger life at sea. 🌊 "Watching for the Missing": A hauntingly beautiful full-page illustration depicting the families left behind, waiting for news of delayed or lost vessels—a poignant theme in this era of maritime travel. 📟 The New Fire Alarm Telegraph: A half-page illustration of a "Single Box" fire alarm. This is a vital primary source for those interested in the history of firefighting technology and urban infrastructure. 🗞️ Front Page & Global News: The cover features a 2/3 page portrait of General Prim, the Spanish revolutionary leader. Also includes a portrait of Prince Henri De Bourbon and a 1/2 page scene of "A Wounded Danish Soldier." Detailed Condition & Transparency 🔍 Issue Format: This is the complete 16-page issue from April 16, 1870. Detailed Documentation: I have taken pictures of every single page. You can personally inspect the Nast parodies and the detailed portrait of General Thomas to ensure the woodblock lines meet your standards for display. Examination: Please look closely at "The Greek Slave" print; Nast’s ability to weave political symbolism into a classical art form is truly remarkable in this issue. Authenticity: This is a guaranteed original 1870 printing. Questions? I am a dedicated partner in your collecting journey. I take pictures of every single page so look closely and ask questions! ✉️📸 Why It’s a Must-Have 🥂 Thomas Nast & Political Collectors: Owning an issue with two full-page Nast prints attacking Boss Tweed is a cornerstone for any political history collection. Civil War Historians: The memorial portrait of General George H. Thomas is a highly sought-after tribute to a pivotal Union figure. Tech & Maritime Enthusiasts: The combination of the new fire telegraph technology and the detailed steamship scenes provides a vivid look at the innovations of 1870. Custom Framing Available: I offer custom framing for anything purchased in my shop. If you would like either of the Nast prints or the General Thomas portrait professionally framed for your home or office, please message me for details! 🏛️ Shipping & Preservation 📦✈️ Your piece of history is handled with the utmost care. I use acid-free cellophane and ship the issue flat-packed with stiff reinforcement to ensure it arrives exactly as shown in the photographs. Your order is sent with tracking for your peace of mind. 🚚💨 Tags (SEO) 🏷️ 1870 Harpers Weekly, Thomas Nast Tweed, Boss Tweed Tammany Hall, The Greek Slave Satire, General George H Thomas, Union General Portrait, Fire Alarm Telegraph History, Steerage Passengers 1870, Steamship Life Art, Antique Wood Engraving.