Civil War Bedspread, 1864
A silk version of this bedspread was displayed at Brooklyn’s Sanitary Fair benefitting Union hospitals in 1864. The eagle was painted by the maker’s son, a professional artist. It attracted much media attention and was later donated to President Lincoln. Its whereabouts are unknown, but two cotton versions remained in Margaret’s family, of which this is one.
Made by Margaret Dodge, Brooklyn, New York. Cotton and paint. Gift of Margaret S. Todd 88.23