VA Dialectic Society Diploma Signed by 40+ Cadets Incl. J. K. Marshall
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VA Dialectic Society Diploma Signed by 40+ Cadets Incl. J. K. Marshall
A Virginia Dialectic Society of Cadets Diploma signed on verso by 40+ cadets, many of who were present at the execution of John Brown at Harper's Ferry. 1p of vellum (front and back), measuring 17.25" x 22.75", Virginia, dated July 3, 18__ [ca. 1861]. Awarded to Cadet James P. Baltzell of Washington County. The diploma was previously rolled and has slight creasing and warping. Light edge toning and soiling. Some wear and tearing to the ribbon. Boldly signed by all. Overall very good.
The diploma is printed in French and signed by the society's president and secretary and decorated with an illustrated view of the institution at the center. On verso, over 40 of Baltzell's classmates have signed their names, including James Keith Marshall. With a light blue-green ribbon at the top right side with a red wax seal. Clean cuts at the top and bottom margins where the ribbon might have been attached.Â
John Brown was charged with inciting a slave insurrection, murder, and treason following his abortive raid of the federal arsenal at Harper's Ferry, Virginia. He was sentenced to an execution witnessed by thousands of military cadets and faculty from the nearby Virginia Military Institute. Among these witnesses were James P. Baltzell and James Keith Marshall. James Peter Baltzell (c. 1830-1868) was a native of Texas and enlisted as a Captain in the Confederate Army. He was later appointed Provost Marshal of the Confederate Army in 1863. James Keith Marshall (1839-1863) was a Confederate Army officer during the American Civil War. He graduated from VMI in 1860 and was selected by the Society of Cadets as the final orator for graduation ceremonies. Marshall took command of J. Johnston Pettigrew's brigade during Pickett's Charge at the Battle of Gettysburg, due to Pettigrew being wounded. He died during the assault, having led his men to the small stone wall on Cemetery Ridge.
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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