Hello N.C. Caswells-Thought this latest setback to the recognition of
the first constitutional governor might be of interest. Perhaps we could
all respond,expressing our interest in getting some definitive research
underway. ClairClair Hadley wrote:
Dear Mr.
Allgood, The
CORRECTIONS column of theRaleigh News&Observer Jan23,1999 states that a
likeness of Richard Caswell was NOT that of the governor but perhaps of
his grandson!I quote "State archivists say they do not have an
authenticated likeness of the former governor".The reason given was that
the clothing shown was "out of period". Yet an article from the Kinston
Daily Free Press of Mon.Oct.29,1973 titled "Caswell Likeness Given to
Lodge" leads off with "A picture of a portrait ACCEPTED by the State of
North Carolina...". Another article on file at Heritage House,undated,
but obviously in 1976,(CASWELL03356-10)says that "authentic" portraits
of Gov. Caswell were to be presented to Caswell Park for the 200th
celebrations. I'm wondering two things (1)Has anyone checked the
signature beneath the miniature against other documents signed by
Caswell? and (2) How can an "officially accepted" portrait be so
summarily rejected? What is it about the clothing that makes it the
wrong period? Also, just WHICH grandson so "the Experts" now think it
is? Finally, can you give names of the Archives or Cultural Resources
personnel one can contact? Thank you. Clair Hadley
>clairhadley(a)erols.com