This is a rare lithograph of the North Carolina Salisbury Prison with hand notations by one of its prisoners, William Bradbury Ryan of the 2nd Rhode Island Regiment. Not only does he give a history of his confinement, he points out his “apartment” in the prison. Ryan was captured by Stuart’s Cavalry at Bull Run and eventually landed in Salisbury in March 1862. He was both a musician and medic to fellow prisoners and was often required to play his violin at Confederate officer gatherings, playing “Dixie” and other favorite tunes. After the Civil War, Ryan assembled a compendium of fiddle tunes (known today as “Ryan’s Mammoth Collection”). Originally published in Boston in 1883 by Elias Howe, Jr., this collection has remained in print in one form or another ever since and has been used as a source of tunes by many generations of fiddlers. Dimensions: 37 1/2" x 27 1/2" Inside 41 1/2" x 31 1/2" Outside

Discoloration on the top right corner; minor foxing