Historic Civil War Recruitment Broadside West Newton, Massachusetts, 1865

Historic Civil War Recruitment Broadside West Newton, Massachusetts, 1865 - Inventory Number: PRI 204

Bold and striking original broadside issued just after the end of the Civil War, dated May 18th, 1865, announcing a meeting at the Town Hall, West Newton for the purpose of forming a Volunteer Company. Printed for Military District No. 148, the notice calls upon the citizens of the district and surrounding area to attend a meeting on Monday the 22nd instant at 7 1-2 o’clock p.m., under the direction of Captain Frank W. Bigelow of Weston, Massachusetts.

Measuring approximately 14 x 20 inches, the broadside is printed in a dramatic mix of typefaces, with the word “ATTENTION!” prominently displayed at the top to catch the eye of passersby. This piece was printed at the Free Press Office in Waltham, Mass., and reflects the urgency and patriotic appeal of the final months of the Civil War and immediate post-war period.

Despite being issued shortly after General Lee’s surrender in April 1865, this call to arms illustrates lingering uncertainties and the continued organization of militia forces for post-war stabilization or potential redeployment. Moderate age toning, some soiling and edge wear, consistent with age and original display.

A rare and evocative survival of Civil War-era recruitment and community mobilization, ideal for framing and display.

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Inventory Number: PRI 204