The Patriots of 61 by Keith Rocco.

For many Americans, the early months leading up to, and during, the first year of the Civil War, were months spent in a flurry of patriotic activities. Few have expressed these times better than H.E. Sterkx, In the beginning patriotism became the prevailing emotion of the day and it affected old and young alike with the determination to do something, almost anything to help. Some designed flags for the republic, others made banners and delivered presentation speeches for local military units, and there were still many more who dedicated themselves to the tremendous task of encouraging men to enlist in the armed forces. It was a time like no other-- because it offered a rare opportunity for females to participate in public affairs. The roles which women played in supporting the war -north and south- through their domestic talents were noted, and honored, and praised at the time. Today, however, they are often overlooked. For the vast majority of women, contributions to the war effort required traditional, domestic skills--sewing flags, or uniforms, knitting socks, and providing foodstuffs, extra blankets and a myriad of items from home. Many soldiers noted that it was these goods--along with letters of encouragement--that allowed them to continue on when the realities of war overwhelmed them. The Patriots of 61 were the War Workers of 1862-65, ministering to the physical, medical, psychological, and spiritual needs of soldiers.

Last copy of this sold out edition.

Signed limited edition of 500 prints.

Image size 24 inches x 16 inches (61cm x 41cm)