DETROIT, MI, Sep 13 (MARKET WIRE) --
It is said that we live in interesting -- perhaps even historical --
times. Without a doubt, so too did Ephraim Fairbanks -- and he left
behind an amazing documentation reflecting the vigor and determination of
a nation at its birth. The relic, a powder horn, found amongst the items
set for the auction block in Detroit today, has been discovered to be an
important piece of Americana according to several historical museums.
Actually, two Ephraim Fairbanks (a father and son), have been established
on record during that period -- both of whom hailed from Bolton,
Massachusetts and have been documented as "Patriots" by the National
Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution. Ephraim, Jr. came
from a prominent family and was a sergeant during the war. His father
Ephraim, Sr. was an overseer of the poor, a surveyor, and a drummer in
Captain Seaman's Company in the conquest of Canada. After King George III
ordered a suppression of the rebellious Americans and a seizure of the
colonists' military stores, Ephraim, Sr. was one of 127 men from his
community who responded to the ring of church bells on April 19, 1775, the
famous "Lexington Alarm." A battle ensued between British and American
soldiers in the Massachusetts towns of Lexington and Concord and it would
be the start of the war for independence.
The powder horn, a device used to carry gunpowder for 18th century
muskets, had been recently owned by the late James O. Keene, whose
collection of important Americana was auctioned off by Sotheby's in 1997.
Dated 1780 (although the Declaration of Independence was signed in 1776,
the war would not end until 1783) and inscribed "Ephraim Fairbank His
Horn," the piece is crowded with many inscriptions referencing the
Revolution: "Union Forever," "The Fall of British Tyranny," "Washington a
Scourge to Tyranny," "Confederation," "Wilks and all True Patriots." Also
found on the piece are engraved pictures depicting military encampment
tents and a man in colonial attire raising his glass in toast.
The powder horn is set for auction today at DuMouchelle Art Galleries in
Detroit, Michigan. For information, call (313) 963-6255 or visit
www.auctiondetroit.com.
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Media Contact:
Nanette Poole
(313) 963-6255
(313) 610-3656
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