LOT Old Heritage Auctions  /  2007 June Civil War Grand Format Auction #663  / 

72092

Union General Kilpatrick's Personl Banner

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles / Historical Memorabilia Start Price:6,250.00 USD Estimated At:25,000.00 - 35,000.00 USD
Union General Kilpatrick's Personl Banner
<B>Union Cavalry General Judson Kilpatrick's Personal Banner,</B></I> 90” x 2.5”, double swallow-tail form, of gold silk throughout with red border enclosing a hand-stitched blue silk legend reading “KILPATRICK'S CAVALRY…ALICE.” Minimal soiling and in excellent condition. This unique streamer carries the Christian name of Kilpatrick's first wife, Alice Nailer, whom he wed upon graduating with West Point's Class of 1861. It is highly likely that the young Mrs. Kilpatrick personally stitched the banner for her rising star of a husband. In fact, a <I>New York Times</B></I> story from November 23, 1863 recounts Kilpatrick's receipt of a Third Division battle flag made by Tiffany and mentions the banner as follows: “From the top of the flag, besides the tassels pendant are two yellow streamers bordered with red - one bearing the name of 'Alice'…”. The banner is accompanied by a field photograph of Kilpatrick that is matted to a 10” x 12” board. A verso inscription states that it was taken in September, 1863. The general is shown standing before his tent and smiling directly at the photographer. Printed on glossy stock with a few light scratches. The mount is moderately aged and has some light chipping to its finish. <BR><BR>The young and reckless Hugh Judson Kilpatrick (1836 - 1881) was tolerated by his superiors, urged on by his ego, corrupted by greed and loathed by many who crossed his ambitious path. Kilpatrick was a divisional cavalry commander who rose to the rank of brevet major-general during the Civil War. His casual disregard for the safety of his men led to his nickname of “Kill Cavalry”. Because he was a fighter, though, Kilpatrick was given increasing responsibility during the course of the war. A veteran of Brandy Station and Gettysburg, Kilpatrick transferred to the Western Theater and served as Sherman's cavalry commander. <BR><BR><B>Provenance:</B></I> <I>The Tharpe Collection of American Military History</B></I><BR><BR><B>Exhibited:</B></I> <I>The Liberty Heritage Society Museum</B></I><BR><BR><b>Shipping:</b> Flat Material, Large (<a target="_blank" href="http://www.heritageauctions.com/common/shipping.php">view shipping information</a>)
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