Flag, Banner - Civil War Confederate
Object number2012.109.05
Date1861-1865
MediumSilk
Dimensions9 x 17 1/4 in. (22.9 x 43.8 cm)
Credit LineOld State House Museum Collection
Terms
Earle was born on January 9, 1831 in Kentucky. He moved to Cane Hill (then known as Boonesboro), Arkansas in 1859 to take the job as president of Cane Hill College. He was also a Cumberland Presbyterian minister. When the Civil War began, Earle initially enlisted in an Arkansas militia and fought at the Battle of Wilson's Creek. After the battle, he returned to Arkansas and in June, 1862, he enlisted as a private in Co. B of the 34th Arkansas. He was elected major in December, 1863. His regiment eventually fell under the command of General James Fagan. Earle's regiment fought at the Battle of Prairie Grove. During the battle, a bullet pierced the back of his cap, cutting his scalp (see accession number 2012.109.04). He next fought at the Battle of Helena and Jenkin's Ferry. He surrendered on June 9, 1865.
After the war, he was elected to the Arkansas State Legislature. While serving as a legislator, he passed the state's first bill for free public schooling. He later served as Arkansas' first secretary of education. In 1867, he wrote and published a book of grammar.
During the war, Cane Hill College was burned. Earle rebuilt the college and served as its president until 1892, when it closed. He spent his last years as a minister. Fontaine Richard Earle died on Sept. 8, 1908.
Status
Not on view
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