A broadside is also called a "penny ballad," and it is a single sheet of paper printed on one side. It was a great way for people to get the word out about their cause or organization, especially in the 19th century. This collection from the Enoch Pratt Free Library brings together broadsides related to life in Maryland primarily between 1860 and 1865. These ditties and other pieces of doggerel include "White Wings," "Why Did They Dig Ma's Grave So Deep?" and "William Price." These verses deal with a range of themes, including love, temperance, and, of course, the Civil War. All told, the collection contains 130 items, and visitors will find it delightful to wander around these gems. Finally, the site also contains a narrative essay that provides useful context for these pieces.
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