Description:

George F. Root
Chicago, IL, ca. November 1888
George F. Root "The Battle Cry of Freedom" AMQS
AMQS

An autograph musical quotation signed by American composer George F. Root (1820-1895), as "Geo. F. Root" at lower right. November 1888. Chicago, Illinois. Inscribed in pen on laid watermarked paper. Root has penned several measures of music complete with musical direction, and inscribed the first line of lyrics as: "Yes, we'll rally 'round the flag boys! We'll rally once again." With two flattened horizontal transmittal folds, and a minor smudge in the lower right corner. Trimmed along the left edge to an overall size of 4.875" x 8." Accompanied by a decorative sheet of printed song lyrics, part of "Ten Illustrated Songs on Notepaper," published by Charles Magnus, 12 Frankfort St., New York. Slightly curled and darkening edges, with mounting traces verso. 5" x 8."

Root composed more than 30 songs during the Civil War, including patriotic airs and military marches. "The Battle Cry of Freedom" proved so popular among the public and enlisted men alike in the North, that it was adopted and altered by Confederates songwriters with equal success. Music historians attribute the immense popularity of "The Battle Cry of Freedom" to the adroit way in which Root's lyrics embraced both abolitionism and pro-Unionism without alienating either Northern faction. Equal weight is given to anti-slavery sentiment ("And although he may be poor he shall never be a Slave") and Unionist rallying cries ("The Union forever!").

This item comes with a Certificate from John Reznikoff, a premier authenticator for both major 3rd party authentication services, PSA and JSA (James Spence Authentications), as well as numerous auction houses.

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  • Dimensions: largest item measures 5" x 8"
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