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The University at Henrico Destroyed in the Massacre XXII March, M. DC. XXII
This bronze lead plaque, of unknown origin or purpose, but probably made in the 1800s, shows the Powhatan attack that killed 347 English colonists. It also destroyed the first university in British America, which had been founded in 1619 to Christianize the Indians.
This is one of ten medals commissioned by Chapter One of the Colonial Dames about 1900 by Civil War artist and Baltimore Dentist, Dr. A. J. Volck. They were awarded between 1903 and 1918 to graduates of Johns Hopkins for writings that advanced the knowledge of early colonial history. They are lead filled bronze 11 inches in diameter and weigh a hefty 13 Lbs. They are signed with an almost microscopic signature under the hand by the axe in lower right. |