United States Sanitary Commission's Great Central Fair opens in Philadelphia (1864)

The Great Central Fair was a fundraising event held in Philadelphia in June 1864 to support the Union Army. Organized by the United States Sanitary Commission, it was part of a broader network of sanitary fairs across the North that raised funds and supplies for sick and wounded soldiers during the American Civil War.

Episodes

Background and detail

Background. The United States Sanitary Commission was a private relief agency created in 1861 to support Union soldiers. To raise funds and supplies, the Commission organized sanitary fairs in various cities. The term 'Sanitary Fair' was coined after successful bazaars in Chicago and Boston in 1863–1864. These events were crucial for financing the Commission's work and aiding the Federal army.

Event Details. The Great Central Fair occurred in Philadelphia in June 1864. It was one of many fundraising events sponsored by local groups to benefit the Commission. While the largest fair was in Chicago in 1863, the Philadelphia event was a significant contribution to the war effort, aligning with the Commission's mission to support sick and wounded soldiers.

People involved

Sources

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