BATTLESHIP “MAINE” SUNK IN HAVANA HARBOR

img_4438.jpgTHE WRECK OF THE MAINE – INVESTIGATION BEGINS
CATALYST OF THE SPANISH-AMERICAN WAR

The Mason City Globe-Gazette
Mason City, Iowa
February 24, 1898

“ALL EYES ON HAVANA Public Must Patiently Await Results of Maine Inquiry.”  The inquiry included salvage divers attempting to piece together the puzzle of how the U.S. Battleship “Maine,” was mysteriously blown up in Cuba. See scans of the three front page sketches of the terrible wreck.  260 American sailors were killed in the explosion. After the investigation, the Americans claimed it was caused by a Spanish mine, while the Spaniards insisted it had to be an internal explosion on the vessel. 13 years later, the hull was re-examined by American experts and the inquiry board claimed the explosion was indeed external. The verdict still remains controversial, as the hulk was immediately towed out to deep water before there could be any further investigation. “Remember the Maine!” became a battle-cry in the ensuing Spanish-American War.

This very scarce newspaper is in good condition, with an irregular spine and a little marginal chipping. Virtually all newspapers of this particular vintage are fairly fragile. This one is still intact and would be a great candidate for framing…and a wonderful conversation piece!  Spanish-American War newspapers are very uncommon.  This one is a must for any serious collection of famous events in American history.

$295

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Posted by mmitchell | Filed Under All Historic Newspapers, Late 19th Century