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U.S. Frigate "Cumberland" flag fragment

1860-1862

Place madeUnited States, North America

Wool

Mount: 2 7/8 in. × 2 in. (7.3 × 5.1 cm)

Gift of Mrs. Charles S. Fairchild, 1926

580

This wool fragment is from the flag of the U.S. Frigate "Cumberland," which was sunk by the prow of the Merrimac in 1862 off of Newport News, Virginia. The "Cumberland" was commanded by Lieutenant George U. Morris (1830-1875), who fought until the ship sunk and went down with the colors flying.

DescriptionSmall fragment of blue wool flag from the U.S. Frigate "Cumberland," affixed to calling card of Mrs. Charles Fairchild.

Markingsprinted: on calling card: "Mrs. Charles Fairchild" handwritten: on envelope: "Piece of the flag of/the Cumberland, sunk/by the prow of the/Merrimac in Hampton/Roads - just off New-/port News-. March /62./(Lieut Geo H. Morris/commanding)/From F. Shonnard(?)"

ClassificationsHISTORIC RELICS