Stampede Among the Negroes in Virginia
Medium
Classification
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
National Portrait Gallery, Smithsonian Institution; acquired through the generosity of Ann M. Shumard
Accession Number
NPG.2011.78
Tags
About this artwork
Soon after the first fugitive slaves were granted protection as "contraband of war" by General Benjamin F. Butler at Union-held Fort Monroe (Virginia) in May 1861, Frank Leslieâs Illustrated Newspaper presented its readers with a double-page spread of images documenting recent events at the fort. In vignettes created by the newspaperâs "Special Artist," refugees from slavery are shown making their escape from bondage, arriving at Fort Monroe, being mustered into service, and making themselve...