The Nation in Tears

Following President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination, mournful citizens found or created outlets for their grief. Konrad Treuer composed “The Nation in Tears” and incorporated lyrics from a dirge published in The Evening Telegraph. This broadside advertised his work. A black band borders the piece, a remnant of Victorian era mourning traditions. Description by Isabelle Samudio (GWU, M.A. ‘25, Museum Studies). The Nation in Tears, undated. Albert H. Small Washingtoniana Collection, AS 2016.42. Read more about this broadside on the center’s Evolution D.C. blog: https://evolutiondc.museum.gwu.edu/the-nation-in-mourning-reactions-to-lincolns-assassination/