One-of-a-kind handmade, quilted, shield-shaped, down throw pillow, measuring approximately 18 x 21 x 9, comprised of 73 hand-sewn ribbon panels, each signed in ink by a different participant in the Spanish-American War. Signers include: William McKinley (Commander-in-Chief of all forces); Theodore Roosevelt (Colonel in the ‘Rough Riders’); George Dewey (Commander of the fleet at Manila Bay); John D. Long (Secretary of the Navy); Clara Barton (Head of the Red Cross); Richard Wainwright (Commander); R. D. ‘Fighting Bob’ Evans (Captain of the Iowa); George W. Sternberg (Surgeon General); William Jennings Bryan (Colonel, Nebraska Regiment); Elihu Root (Secretary of War); Adna R. Chaffee (Major General); Nelson A. Miles (Major General, Commanding); O. O. Howard (Major General); Stuart L. Woodford (Ambassador to Spain); Joseph Wheeler (Major General Volunteers); Charles King (Brigadier General); John Hay (Secretary of State); Charles D. Sigsbee (Captain of the Maine); and Pascual Cervera (a captured Spanish officer). The pillow was originally constructed by Mrs. George T. Greenwood of Fitchburg, Massachusetts, who sent gold ribbons to military officers and statesmen at the close of the war, asking for their signatures, and receiving an almost 100% response. Some signatures have the appearance of being traced over, a couple of separations along one seam, and expected light wear, otherwise fine condition. Accompanied by a photocopied news clipping about the pillow being displayed during World War II. A compete list of signatures is available for download or viewing by clicking here.
Holding the signatures of several men and woman who made their mark on the world beginning with or during the Spanish-American War, this is a delightful commemorative piece. Highlighted by McKinley, who decisively led the nation into war, presenting a bold foreign policy that would open the doors for the US’s increasing involvement in world affairs; Roosevelt, who formed his legendary Rough Riders and became a national war hero, propelling him into the White House; Clara Barton, who led her organization in aiding soldiers, refugees, and prisoners of the civil war; and George Dewey, who achieved one of the most decisive naval battles in history at Manila Bay, marking the end of the Spanish colonial period in Philippine history. A one-of-a-kind historic memento. RR Auction COA.
