Description
This unique vintage card features a personal photograph of an elderly woman-identified simply as “Grandmother”-seated in a chair, knitting. Below the image is the handwritten note: “Grandmother at the Shirley House.” While no date is provided, the overall appearance suggests mid-20th century or earlier.
The reference to the Shirley House likely points to the historic Civil War-era home located in Vicksburg National Military Park, Mississippi. Known as the only surviving wartime structure in the park, the Shirley House-also called “Wexford Lodge”-played a pivotal role during the Siege of Vicksburg in 1863 and served as Union headquarters for the 45th Illinois Infantry.
*
Original black-and-white photograph affixed to card stock
*
Handwritten caption gives personal and historical context
*
Photo believed to be taken at the famous Shirley House in Vicksburg
*
The Shirley House is a preserved Civil War landmark, making this a rare crossover between personal ephemera and American history
*
Ideal for collectors of vernacular photography, Civil War tourism memorabilia, or family archive ephemera
An evocative piece that blends personal heritage with national historical significance.
