Harpers Weekly Page July 29 1865 Appraisal

Harper's Weekly Page, July 29, 1865 edition

This is an original page from the July 29, 1865 issue of Harper's Weekly, a highly influential American political magazine of the 19th century. The page features a large wood-engraved illustration titled 'RUINS OF BARNUM'S AMERICAN MUSEUM AS SEEN THE MORNING AFTER THE FIRE.' This dramatic scene depicts the aftermath of the fire that destroyed P.T. Barnum's famous New York City landmark. Below the main illustration is a detailed news report and a second, smaller engraving titled 'LAUNCHING OF THE UNITED STATES SHIP MADAWASKA.' The page is printed on typical period newsprint (wood pulp or rag paper) with black ink. The upper edge shows the publication date and page number 473. The condition appears fair to good for its age; there is visible yellowing and foxing consistent with old paper, and it is currently protected in a plastic sleeve. The printing shows the fine, cross-hatched detail characteristic of 19th-century wood engraving, a labor-intensive illustrative technique. Notable elements include the depiction of Victorian-era crowds, horse-drawn carriages, and the charred shell of the five-story museum building. This artifact serves as a significant primary source document regarding both the history of American entertainment and naval construction during the tail end of the Civil War era.