Photographic postcard of fortifications in Springfield, Illinois

Source catalog description

This description refers to material held by Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Visual details below describe the original material.

A black-and-white photographic postcard of militiamen occupying Springfield, Illinois, after the race riot. Pictured throughout the scene are state militiamen, guarding and lounging by the local businesses. At the center of the image is a wide road, lines with tall, bushy tree, electrical poles, and carriages. Rifle towers are staged, in a lineup, all along the road leading away from the camera. On the right side of the image are brick buildings and groups of militiamen, many of whom loiter outside of the Schlitz Beer store, below the round “SCHLITZ” sign above the door. A large poster hangs on the wall of the building to the right of Schlitz, and depicts a male character dressed in a top hat. Words in white text above his hat include “IT MEETS EVERY.” Inscribed in black ink at the bottom center and bottom right of the image is “POST / PHOTO / SPRINGFIELD RACE WAR / AUG.’ 08”.

Explore Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture ↗