3 3/4 x 6, imprint. Copyrighted 1887 By W.H. Tipton, with his trademark logo which incorporates the interlocking initials "W.H.T.," and "Established 1859, Artistic Photography." Below the logo is their archival photograph number and title, "No. 734. John L. Burns." It continues with a detailed biographical description regarding Mr. Burns: "At the commencement of the Battle of Gettysburg, July 1st, 1863, John L. Burns, then past 70 years of age and a citizen of the place, inspired by the spirit of true patriotism, shouldered his trusty flint-lock rifle and went out to meet the enemy, who were then advancing toward Gettysburg, and within a short distance of the town. Entering the ranks of the 7th Wisconsin regiment, he fought with unflinching bravery. In the early part of the engagement he was wounded twice, and although suffering greatly from his wounds, he faltered not, but pressed on, taking an active part until near 4 o'clock, P.M., when he fell badly wounded by a ball in the ankle. Soon after his fall the loyal army retreated, leaving him on the field in the enemy's lines, where he remained until the following morning.

John Burns was for many years the Borough Constable of Gettysburg, and was very strong willed and positive. He died February 4, 1872, and was buried in Evergreen Cemetery.

In his official report General Doubleday says: "My thanks are specially due to a citizen of Gettysburg named John Burns, who although over seventy years of age, shouldered his musket and offered his services to Colonel Wister, 150th Pennsylvania Volunteers. Colonel Wister advised him to fight in the woods, as there was more shelter there; but he preferred to join our line of skirmishers in the open fields. When the troops retired he fought with the Iron Brigade."

This picture has been prepared from our original card photograph taken of him before full recovery from his wounds.

W.H. TIPTON,
The Battlefield Photographer, Gettysburg, Pa.

Choice condition. This original unused photographic label was meant to be affixed to the back of the John L. Burns photograph described above. It's dual purpose was to advertise for both the Burns image as well as W.H. Tipton's Gettysburg gallery, and enhance his reputation as the Gettysburg Battlefield photographer. Very desirable Gettysburg related imprint.

WBTS Trivia: William H. Tipton, was born in Gettysburg, and was most noted for his extensive early photography of the Gettysburg Battlefield, and the borough of Gettysburg, Pa. Becoming quite popular, he probably took more images at Gettysburg than any other photographer, and was considered one of America's best known landscape and portrait photographers. Tipton served on Gettysburg's town council, and also in the Pennsylvania House of Representatives.