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Original vintage silver gelatin real photo postcard (RPPC), approximately 3.5" x 5.5", depicting two identified military officers from Hopkinsville, Kentucky.
The photograph shows the men in formal U.S. military-style service uniforms with Sam Browne belts, jodhpurs and riding boots, posed in a studio setting with a painted backdrop. The photograph is believed to date to the 1930s, consistent with Graham B. Cowherd's documented Kentucky National Guard service and rank during this period.
The two men are identified as:
Capt. Graham B. (Brown) Cowherd
1898–1964
Hopkinsville, Kentucky
Lt. Claud Davis Wade
1901–1952
Hopkinsville, Kentucky
GRAHAM B. COWHERD — WWI MARINE VETERAN
Graham B. Cowherd has a particularly well-documented military history.
Kentucky National Guard historical records document that Cowherd enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in April 1918, served overseas with the 6th Regiment, Marines, and was wounded in action on November 10, 1918, one day before the Armistice. His service history records his subsequent award of the Purple Heart.
After World War I, Cowherd returned to Hopkinsville and became active in the Kentucky National Guard. By 1937 he had risen to the rank of Captain and Company Commander, serving with Company C, 113th Quartermaster Regiment. The 1938 National Guard of the State of Kentucky historical publication identifies Cowherd and documents his earlier Marine Corps service and combat wound.
The uniform and rank shown in this portrait are consistent with his later National Guard service.
CLAUD DAVIS WADE
The second officer is identified as Lieutenant Claud Davis Wade of Hopkinsville, Kentucky. A separate photograph from the same collection is also identified with the period notation "Lieutenant Claud Wade."
PROVENANCE
This photograph comes directly through the family collection of Graham B. Cowherd and has remained in the family for generations. It is being offered outside the family collection for the first time.
The identification labels and accompanying registration and service documentation have been kept with the photograph and are shown with this listing.
The combination of an identified portrait, two Hopkinsville military officers, family provenance, and documentation relating to Cowherd's WWI Marine service and subsequent Kentucky National Guard career makes this an especially interesting piece of Kentucky and U.S. military history.
CONDITION
This is an original vintage photograph/postcard, not a modern reproduction. Very good antique condition for its age. The image is clear and crisp with strong contrast. There is typical light edge wear and minor surface wear/toning consistent with age.Please review all photos carefully for exact condition and appearance as they are part of the description.I’m happy to answer any questions or send additional photos upon request.
Shipping: Fast handling — ships same or next business day with calculated shipping and tracking. Delivery estimates are determined by carrier based on the service selected. Once accepted by carrier, transit time is outside of seller control.
Note on shipping cost: Calculated shipping reflects actual carrier rates based on this item’s real packed weight and dimensions.I do not inflate shipping costs and want to get your item to you as cost-effectively as possible while ensuring it arrives safely. If actual shipping comes in under the calculated amount, I will refund the difference.
