(Election of 1892) Broadside, 16 x 5 1/2 in., headed “Which Will It Be?” issued by the Chicago, Milwaukee and St. Paul Railway, (Chicago: Rand, McNally & Co., [1892]).

An excellent three color poster bearing the portraits of Republican hopefuls James G. Blaine, Benjamin Harrison, William McKinley, Russell A. Alger, and Chauncey M. Depew advertising special fares to attend the Republican National Convention in St. Paul, Minnesota. Interestingly of the hopefuls illustrated, Blaine’s portrait is the largest. This may have been an effort to generate excitement over the prospect of a party rebellion against the incumbent, Benjamin Harrison. Blaine had resigned his post as Secretary of State only days before the convention. While his motives were uncertain, some elements of the party supported his running for the White House one last time (and perhaps some on the railroad’s board supported Blaine). For Blaine it was too late: he lost in a landslide to Harrison at the convention. Harrison won 535 votes, while Blaine tied future president William McKinley, with 182.

Overall quite clean. Neatly hinged to an archival mat and ready for display.

(EXA 4293) $325