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The upcoming auction on April 25-26, 2025, presents a rare opportunity for collectors and historians to acquire significant artifacts from the dawn of the American Civil War. Among the items are three notable pieces from the esteemed Dr. John K. Lattimer Collection, each intimately connected to the Battle of Fort Sumter and the valor of Sergeant Peter Hart.
Shell Fragments from Fort Sumter Gathered by Peter Hart
This lot comprises three iron shell fragments collected by Sergeant Peter Hart on April 14, 1861, the day following Fort Sumter's surrender. Hart, a former First Sergeant under Major Robert Anderson and a family friend, became a hero during the battle by braving enemy fire to raise the fallen Union flag. These fragments are accompanied by a handwritten note stating "Gathered by Peter Hart" and a copy of a Norm Flaydermann auction listing, affirming their provenance.
Historic Surrender Flag from Fort Sumter
Another remarkable artifact is the surrender flag used during the negotiations of Fort Sumter's capitulation on April 13, 1861. Measuring 28.5 inches by 33 inches, this flag is crafted from ground cloth linen and retains tack holes from its original use. It is mounted on a wooden staff of undetermined age. The flag's provenance traces back to Peter Hart, who collected numerous items from Fort Sumter. Accompanying the flag is a comprehensive report by Civil War historian Gregg Biggs, as well as documentation from the Textile Conservation Workshop of South Salem, NY, confirming its authenticity.
Piece of the Battle Flag from Fort Sumter
This lot features a 2.5-inch square swatch of red woven linen from the original battle flag flown over Fort Sumter during the Confederate bombardment. The fragment comes with a handwritten letter detailing its historical significance as a rallying symbol. Also included is a period song by Charles Magnus titled "The Fall of Charleston," accompanied by a lithograph depicting the bombardment, and an auction clipping indicating Dr. Lattimer's acquisition of these items, likely from Peter Hart's collection.
These artifacts not only offer tangible connections to the pivotal moments at Fort Sumter but also highlight the bravery and dedication of individuals like Sergeant Peter Hart, whose actions have left an indelible mark on American history.
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