Follow the "Pathfinder" to trace the roots of the Republican Party with this antique campaign ribbon. John C. Fremont gained national recognition for his five expeditions to chart the American West during the 1840s-1850s, for which he earned his "Pathfinder" nickname. He is also remembered for some controversial actions, including his proclamation of martial law in Missouri on 8/30/1861 as the commanding Union officer of the Department of the West. This action included the emancipation of slaves without notifying President Lincoln, who rescinded Fremont's emancipation proclamation. A strong proponent of the abolition of slavery, Fremont also had the honor of being the first ever presidential candidate for the Republican Party, which brings us to the offered ribbon.

Fremont won the newly formed Republican Party nomination in 1856, running against Democrat James Buchanan. Typical of the times, the candidates did not stump and did little campaigning. Founded chiefly in opposition to slavery, the Republican Party did the campaigning for its candidate, with the slogan “Free speech, free press, free soil, free men, Frémont and victory!”. Most of the surviving ribbons from Fremont's 1856 campaign see him depicted riding a horse. The offered ribbon is unusual and likely very rare.

Measuring approximately 2x6, this important piece of political memorabilia is professionally framed and mounted to overall dimensions of 8-1/2 x 10-1/2" in a stately gold gilt frame in excellent condition. Despite typical moderate fraying on the top and bottom edges and several light wrinkles, this ancient ribbon remains very attractive with bold graphics and text against a clean silk surface. The text at top reads "FREE LABOR__the natural capital which constitutes the real wealth of this great country, and creates that intelligent power in the masses alone to be relied on as the bulwark for FREE INSTITUTIONS". This passage is followed by an oval portrait of Fremont set against scenes of the western frontier, including a battle with Native Americans. Printed at bottom is the slogan "John C. Fremont, Hail! to the Chief who in triumph advances".

Frames included with lots: while we make every effort to protect the frames included in these lots during pre-auction storage and post-auction shipping, we are not responsible for any damage to the frames themselves, and no refunds will be given due to frame damage.