Framed Front Page of The Louisville Times Newspaper (May 4, 1961)

This item is a framed, authentic front page of "The Louisville Times" newspaper, dated Thursday, May 4, 1961. The newspaper's primary headline reads "U.S. Spaceman Up... Down Safe," commemorating Alan Shepard's historic suborbital flight, America's first human spaceflight. The paper exhibits a distinct aged patina, displaying an overall yellowish-brown discoloration consistent with its age and exposure to light; however, there are no significant visible rips, tears, or creases observed within the framed area, indicating good preservation. The newspaper is mounted within a simple, dark-stained wooden frame, likely a generic retail frame, with a black finish. The frame itself shows some minor scuffs and wear along its edges and corners, suggesting typical handling and display. There is a wire hanger attached to the back of the frame, visible in the upper corners through the glass, indicating it was intended for wall display. The newspaper appears to be floating within the frame, possibly mounted behind glass but without a mat, allowing the outer edges of the newspaper to be visible. The print quality is clear and legible for its age, showcasing the typical typography and layout of mid-20th-century newspapers. This piece is significant as a historical artifact capturing a pivotal moment in the Space Race and American history.