Zoomify Challenge!

Can you find this detail in one of the images below?

Lee's Sword | Zoomify »

This presentation sword, that was made by Devisme in Paris and came through the blockade, was given to Gen. Robert E. Lee in 1863 by an anonymous Marylander. The motto inscribed on the reverse blade, "Aide toi et dieu l'aidera," translates to “Help yourself and God will help you.” Lee wore this sword to the surrender meeting at the McLean House in Appomattox on April 9, 1865. Originally lent to the Museum by Lee family descendants in 1918, the loan was converted into a gift in 1979.

General Lee's magnificent sword is a centerpiece of the exhibits at Appomattox. Plan your visit today.

Surgeon's Kit | Zoomify »

The label on this artifact reads, "This case of surgical instruments used in the amputation of Stonewall Jackson's arm in the closing days of the Civil War. These instruments were given by Dr. J. R. W. Dunbar, a distinguished surgeon of Baltimore to his pupil Dr. J. L. Schock in 1865. (Signed) Floyd Shock Oct 1934." However, corroborative evidence is extremely sketchy, and it would appear that the history of the piece(s) is highly doubtful. Several of the instruments (nippers, forceps) are not original to the case.

Lodge Colton CN Belt | Zoomify »

This Confederate Navy belt and plate belonged to Lodge Colton, who was Master's Mate on the Confederate Cruiser, CSS Shenandoah.  The belt plate is thought to be the only one of its type in existence. Colton was appointed from Maryland and served as Acting Master's Mate (as of October 8, 1864) aboard the CSS Shenandoah during 1864 - 1865.  Colton "answered at last roll call of the crew when the captain surrendered to British authorities seven months after Gen. Lee's surrender.  Lodge Colton's native city was Baltimore, Maryland.  He resided in Philadelphia, his occupation, 'mariner.' Colton died in 1913.  His 1865 railroad pass for the Melbourne & Hobson's Bay Railway Company (MS-19310223) is in the Confederate Navy Series in the Eleanor S. Brockenbrough Library.  His sword and scabbard(0985.13.723-.723a) are also present in the Museum's collections.

Alfred Goodwin Shell Jacket | Zoomify »

This shell jacket belonged to Alfred Mercer Goodwin, Jr.  He drew clothing on August 29, 1864, and after the war wrote, "I have my old Confederate (Artillery) (Standard) uniform.  Made of English goods … It is like the owner, old and most worn out, but is priceless.  I have worn it on every reunion that I could since Appomattox…."

Henry Rifle | Zoomify »

Lt. Col. George Alexander Martin owned this Henry rifle. It was presented to him in Charlotte, NC, in honor of his being a staff officer in defense of President Jefferson Davis during his flight from Richmond in 1865.

CN Belt Buckle | Zoomify »

Confederate Naval Officers belt buckle cast with CN.  This is believed to be a later War variant of European (English?) manufacture.  While all Confederate Naval buckles are considered rare, the CN variants are the less common variants when compared to buckles cast to resemble the Confederate Navy officers' buttons motif with crossed cannon behind a fouled anchor.

Balloon in frame | Zoomify »

This frame contains a fragment ofa  Confederate hot air balloon, Gazelle. The balloon Flew before battle of Gaines Mill in 1862 and was captured aboard the CSS Teaser on the James River.
The balloon was stitched together from dress silk.  In his book The Story of the Civil War, Lt. Gen. James Longstreet wrote that "the Federals gathered it in and with it the last silk dress in the Confederacy. This capture was the meanest trick of the war and one I have never forgiven."

Jeb Stuart Saddle | Zoomify »

Maj. Gen. James Ewell Brown Stuart used this saddle during the war. It is a U.S. McClellan saddle with russet leather skirts attached with brass screws and embossed hooded stirrups; iron hardware and brass oval escutchion plates and unmarked pommel shield.  Short quarter straps are attached to flat, blacksmith-made iron D-rings. The saddle has small russet cantle bags.  The front cantle is stencilled: "J.E.B. STUART. U.S.”

Stuart Belt Buckle | Zoomify »

This rectangular stamped brass belt buckle is U.S. pattern 1851 with a U.S. eagle/wreath insignia.  Maj. Gen. James Ewell Brown Stuart wore this sword belt during the war.

Harrison Tomlin Portrait | Zoomify »

This is a portrait of Harrison Ball Tomlin, 1815-1897. Tomlin was the colonel of the 53rd Virginia Infantry from its organization in January 1862 until his resignation in January 1863. He then served as a delegate to the Virginia Assembly for 17 years.  The portrait is an oil on canvas, signed, "L.M.D. Guillaume" on front.  It is possibly painted from life.