Stephen A. Douglas

Stephen A, Douglas - Inventory Number: HAR 143

Outstanding and historically important ca. 1860's, brooch depicting Stephen A. Douglas - 

Stephen Arnold Douglas (April 23, 1813 – June 3, 1861) was an American politician and lawyer from Illinois. He was the Democratic Party nominee for president in the 1860 election, but he was defeated by Republican candidate Abraham Lincoln. Douglas had previously bested Lincoln in the 1858 Illinois election for the United States Senate, which is known for the Lincoln–Douglas debates. During the 1850s, Douglas was one of the foremost advocates of popular sovereignty, which held that each territory should be allowed to determine whether to permit slavery within its borders. Douglas was nicknamed the "Little Giant" because he was short in physical stature, but a forceful and dominant figure in politics.

A fine piece of jewelry most likely being constructed of a 10k Gold.  This brooch houses an original albumen photo of Douglas.   The reverse retains the original “T-bar” pin and open clasp design.  From the personal collection of Tom Gordon Jr. noted second generation political collector and antique dealer.  A wonderful piece of civil war jewelry.  

Inventory Number: HAR 143