During the Civil War, Old Abe, a young eagle, served as the mascot for the 8th Wisconsin Volunteer Infantry. He was carried into battle at the head of the troops, perched atop his wooden carrier. This image was taken in 1876 during the Centennial Exposition in Philadephia. Old Abe was one of the most popular exhibits at the celebration. BM: "The Centennial Photograph Of 'Old Abe,' the Live Wisconsin War Eagle. Photographed by the Centennial Photographic Co. . . .I hereby certify that this picture is a correct likeness of 'Old Abe,' the Live War Eagle, carried for three years by the 8th Wisconsin Reg't in the War of the Rebellion. Sold with the Eagle's History, by J.O. Barrett, Agricultural Building, Centennial Grounds, for the "Old Abe Museum of Ornithology." Entered according to Act of Congress in the year 1876, by W.W. Barrett, in the officer of the Librarian of Congress, at Washington, D.C."

Image shows Old Abe on a wooden perch; light soiling throughout, slight wear to edge of mount, otherwise in good condition. Somewhat light in contrast.