Sheridan’s Ride, performed by Edgar L. Davenport (1913)

Описание: This recording features a dramatic recitation of the Civil War poem “Sheridan’s Ride”, performed by Edgar L. Davenport, a well-known American actor and reciter of the early 20th century. The piece was released as Edison Blue Amberol Record No. 1957, originally issued as Edison Amberol 397, and survives today on Cylinder 0804 with a running time of approximately three minutes and fifty-seven seconds. It is preserved in the Todd Collection.

The poem, written by Thomas Buchanan Read (1822–1872), celebrates the daring and decisive cavalry ride of General Philip H. Sheridan during the American Civil War, particularly at the Battle of Cedar Creek in 1864. Read’s poem combines historical narrative with patriotic fervour, turning Sheridan’s actions into a stirring example of courage and leadership.

Davenport delivers the poem with dramatic emphasis, highlighting both the heroism of Sheridan and the perilous chaos of battle. These early cylinder recordings allowed listeners to experience history and literature as a performance, bringing iconic moments of American history into homes long before the age of radio or cinema.

Original format: Phonograph cylinder
Recording number: Edison Blue Amberol 1957 / Edison Amberol 397
Cylinder: 0804, Take 1
Year: 1913
Genre: Civil War poetry / historical recitation
Language: English
Geographic subject: United States

This recording preserves not only a vivid literary tribute to one of the Civil War’s notable figures but also demonstrates the early 20th-century fascination with storytelling through voice, rhythm, and drama.