The Confederate version of "Harper's Weekly"...

Item # 581842

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October 25, 1862

SOUTHERN ILLUSTRATED NEWS, Richmond, Oct. 25, 1862 A very rare publication from the Confederacy, only a few issues of which having come into our inventory over the past 35 years.
The front page features an engraving of "General Benjamin McCulloch" with the balance of the front page taken up with a biography on him (see for portions).
Page 2 has some war reports under the heading: "The Times" with close to a full column of news. Included is a "P.S." which begins: "The victory of Gen. Bragg seems to be confirmed...quotes the Knoxville Register...saying that two couriers had arrived confirming it--that the battle commenced on Monday, 6th, Gen. Hardee commanding the right, Gen. Buckner the centre and Gen. Marshall the left..." with further particulars on the battle of Perryville, or Chaplin Hills, Kentucky (see).
The two center pages include four illustrations which accompany the article: "Getting Married", one of which shows the slave of the central character, titled: "The Lock-Keeper's Man".
Much of the remainder of the issue is taken up with various literary items.
Begun on September 13, 1862 the "Southern Illustrated News" sought to fill the void left when the Southern States lost access to Harper’s Weekly and other illustrated newspapers from the North. In its “Salutatory,” in the first issue the editors state: "...We propose to issue an Illustrated Family Newspaper…devoted to literature, to public instruction and amusement, to general news, and to the cause of our country in this trying hour when she is engaged in a terrible, but resolute and hopeful struggle for her liberty and independence..."
Although it could be argued it never lived up to all of these goals as reports from the war were very limited, it was an important publication nonetheless. At its peak boasting as many subscribers as the largest daily paper in Richmond. As with all Southern publications it suffered from lack of supplies, reporters, artists and engravers as many had been drafted either into the military or into the service of the Confederate administration to engrave paper money and stamps. The engravings were crude when compared to Yankee publications.
Complete in 8 pages, very minor rubbing at the folds & scattered foxing. Generally in nice condition. This is the volume 1 number 7 issue.

Category: Confederate