19th Century Handwritten Poem “Shadows” Attributed to Alice Cary Manuscript

Description

19th Century Handwritten Poem “Shadows” Attributed to Alice Cary Manuscript. This is being sold as a19th-century handwritten manuscript poem attributed to Alice Cary, not as a autograph. The poem is carefully written in elegant brown ink on lined period paper and spans multiple pages. 19th Century Handwritten Poem “Shadows” Attributed to Alice Cary Manuscript Civil War Era Item Description – FREE Shipping Offered is a handwritten 19th-century manuscript poem titled: “Shadows” By Alice Cary The poem is carefully written in elegant brown ink on lined period paper and spans multiple pages. The handwriting is consistent throughout and appears to be a single hand. The manuscript includes the full poetic text beginning: “When I see the long wild briers Waving in the winds like fires…” The paper shows horizontal fold lines consistent with period letter folding and storage. Age toning is visible throughout, along with light surface wear typical of mid-to-late 19th-century paper. There are minor areas of discoloration and handling marks, but the ink remains legible. Important Disclosure: • I do NOT know who wrote this document. • I have compared the handwriting to known Alice Cary signatures and examples, and it does NOT appear to match her hand. • This may be a contemporary handwritten copy of her poem rather than an autograph manuscript. • This document was found with other historical documents and authentic autographs from the post–Civil War period. • The documents in that collection were authentic; however, this specific manuscript has not been independently authenticated. • It has been passed down through generations, suggesting possible family or historical significance. This is being sold as a 19th-century handwritten manuscript poem attributed to Alice Cary, not as a autograph. Please review all photos carefully and judge condition and authorship for yourself. Historical Context & Significance Manuscript poetry was commonly copied by hand in the 19th century for personal keepsakes, albums, mourning books, and family preservation. The poem’s themes—memory, loss, nature, and reflection—are consistent with post–Civil War sentimental literature. The paper, ink tone, folding style, and penmanship are consistent with late 19th-century materials. Whether an early transcription or period copy, this remains a genuine antique manuscript from the post Civil War era or thereafter. About Alice Cary (1820–1871) Alice Cary was a prominent 19th-century American poet and writer associated with the literary circles of New York during the mid-19th century. • Born in Ohio in 1820 • Moved to New York City in the 1850s • Associated with major literary figures of the era • Published poetry in leading periodicals • Known for sentimental, reflective verse often centered on memory, nature, and loss • Sister of poet Phoebe Cary • Died in 1871 Cary was respected in her lifetime and part of the American literary movement that bridged antebellum and post–Civil War culture. Her poetry frequently appeared in newspapers and magazines, making it common for readers to copy her works into personal journals and albums. Why This Piece Is Interesting • 19th-century manuscript poetry • Civil War–era provenance • Literary Americana • Attributed to a known American poet • Multi-page original handwritten document • Family-preserved historical paper This is a compelling piece of 19th-century literary history regardless of authorship, and it would display beautifully in an Americana, Civil War, or literary collection. Free shipping included.