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One of the more fascinating publishers from the Civil War...



Item # 704225

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April 23, 1864

BROWNLOW’S KNOXVILLE WHIG, AND REBEL VENTILATOR, Tennessee, April 23, 1864  

* Very rare American Civil War publication
* William Gannaway "Parson" Brownlow


W. G. Brownlow, or Parson Brownlow, was a fascinating personality to say the least. He regarded anyone who disagreed with him about religion or politics as an enemy. The circuit-riding Methodist parson turned to the press to spread his harsh anti-Presbyterian, anti-Calvinist rhetoric, and to spread his fervently held views on the inferiority of blacks & his unalterable opposition to secession. In 1861 Brownlow’s criticism of the Confederacy led the government to shut down his newspapers for 2 years. In December, 1861, Brownlow was arrested on a charge of high treason against the Confederacy. He spent much of 1862 touring the North giving pro-Union lectures & when he returned to Knoxville in 1863 the federal government provided him with a press, some type, $1500, & a government printing contract (credit Wikipedia). See the hyperlink for more on Brownlow.
His first issue under the title noted was dated Nov. 11, 1863 but after just 2 issues it would be suspended until January 9, 1864, and then it would only last until February, 1866. This is the volume 1, number 16 issue.
Among the great wealth of fascinating articles are: "Random Thoughts on a Trip North" "Cold Blooded Murder" "Anti-Slavery Principles in Kentucky 30 Years Ago" "A Disabled Hero--Interesting Narrative of an Invalid Spy--His Capture & Escape..." "General Orders No. 6" signed in type by: Maj. Gen. W. T. Sherman; "Increased Rebel Severity" "Arming Negroes" "First East Tennessee Cavalry" "Terrible  Butchery at  Fort  Pillow" and much more.
The back page has over half a column taken up with the: "Prospectus of Brownlow's Knoxville Whig and Rebel Ventilator".
Four pages, minor damp stain near the bottom, generally nice.


Note: An internet search for "Brownlow The Daily Southern Guardian, February 17, 1862" (without the quotes) will take you to an article written shortly after his arrest which clearly communicates the Confederacy's concern in regard to his newspaper.

Category: Yankee