Independent Democratic County Meeting. Retrenchment and Reform! A Meeting of the Independent Democratic Voters Of Kent County, Delaware, Will Be Held On Thursday, The 6th of October A.D. 1870 [opening lines broadside]

“And all who are in favor of the Reformation and Correction of abuses and Errors which have crept in [...] are invited to be present…”

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Nearly three feet tall, exceptionally large and unrecorded. This ca. 1870 broadside captures 19th-century Delaware politics, and the era’s spirit of political engagement and reform in American society.

On Thursday, October 6, the Independent Democratic Voters of Kent County met under the banner of ‘Retrenchment and Reform’ to address key issues. Their main goal was to nominate an Independent Democratic County Ticket that upheld Democratic principles but remained free from factional ties. This ticket pledged to support a ‘wise and economical administration’ of the state government, emphasizing fiscal responsibility and good governance.

The meeting included supporters of the Democratic Party who called for government reform, spending cuts, and fair taxation. They backed a tax law to ensure timely interest payments, reduce state debt, and distribute tax burdens evenly. Members also sought to correct mismanagement in state and county affairs.

Prominent figures such as Hon. John A. Nicholson, Edward Ridgley, Beniah Watson, and Elias S. Reed, addressed the gathering, adding gravitas to the proceedings. The event added a touch civic celebration, as the Independent Cornet Brass Band of Dover performed for the gathering.

Nineteenth century Delaware broadsides of this size are rare.

Price: $2,000.00