Civil War Patriotic Cover “Col. Ellsworth” | “The Warren of ’61” Mourning Design | Union Martyr Tribute

Civil War Patriotic Cover “Col. Ellsworth” | “The Warren of ’61” Mourning Design | Union Martyr Tribute. Offered here is an original Civil War patriotic cover honoring Union martyr Colonel Elmer E. Ellsworth, one of the earliest and most celebrated Northern casualties of the American Civil War.

The multicolor design features crossed American flags surrounding an oval portrait of Ellsworth above the bold patriotic slogan:

“THE WARREN OF ’61.”

Beneath the portrait appears a moving quotation taken from Ellsworth’s final letter:

“Whatever may happen, cherish the consolation that I was engaged in the performance of a sacred duty.”

The comparison to Joseph Warren — the Revolutionary War hero killed at the Battle of Bunker Hill — reflects how Northerners immediately elevated Ellsworth into a symbol of patriotic sacrifice and Union devotion.

This particular variety includes the additional red printed identification:

“COL. ELLSWORTH”

above the slogan, making the patriotic tribute unmistakable to period viewers.

Ellsworth’s death in Alexandria, Virginia in May 1861 profoundly shocked the North and reportedly moved President Abraham Lincoln deeply. Patriotic covers, mourning stationery, memorial prints, and other tributes were quickly produced in his honor during the opening weeks of the Civil War.

The cover remains unused and displays attractively with strong patriotic graphics and excellent historical appeal.

A wonderful and evocative Civil War patriotic cover honoring one of the Union’s earliest wartime heroes.