Black Confederate Veteran Photo of "Uncle Steve Eberhart" with Captured Chickens

Rare Early 20th-Century Gelatin Silver Photograph of "Uncle Steve Eberhart" (Steve Perry), Formerly Enslaved Camp Servant and Reunion Attendant.
 
This exceptional full-length portrait captures "Uncle Steve Eberhart" (legal name Steve Perry, ca. 1840s–1936) standing in elaborate attire evocative of his public persona at United Confederate Veterans reunions. He is depicted in a flamboyant costume complete with a tall feathered hat, Confederate-style regalia, reunion medals, ribbons, and two live chickens tucked under his arms—a signature element referencing his wartime role as a forager and cook for Confederate forces.
 
Steve Perry, a formerly enslaved African American from Georgia, accompanied his master during the Civil War, performing duties that included procuring and preparing food, earning him the status of "Champion Chicken Catcher" in early 1920s periodicals. In the postwar era, he became a well-known figure (and mascot) at Confederate veterans' reunions, adopting the stage name "Uncle Steve Eberhart" and embracing a performative role. You can even find original videos of him speaking at Confederate Veterans reunions bring this historic figure to life.
 
The original gelatin photograph is professionally framed and matted, accompanied by a reproduction of a contemporaneous article providing further biographical details on this notable historical figure. Overall frame dimensions: 12 × 22 inches. Ready for immediate display.