An original historical ephemera group relating to Capt. Charles E. Benham of Lakewood, Ohio, who died in 1929 at age 81. The lot includes a large portrait photograph bearing a handwritten signature reading “C. E. Benham,” two photographs showing a flower-covered funeral display, and contemporary newspaper obituary clippings with a portrait and biographical information.

The obituary identifies Benham as a former lake captain, marine surveyor and appraiser, and longtime Lakewood city councilman. It also mentions his civic, business and fraternal affiliations, making this an interesting group for collectors of Cleveland-area history, Great Lakes maritime history, genealogy and early 20th-century newspaper ephemera.

Included in the lot:

• Large portrait photograph with handwritten signature

• Two photographs of the funeral floral display

• Newspaper obituary clipping with portrait

• Additional obituary text clipping

Condition: Antique material with substantial age and handling wear. The large portrait mount has extensive creasing, tears, missing sections and edge damage. The newspaper clippings are brittle-looking, heavily worn and torn, with missing portions. The smaller photographs show age toning and some wear. Please examine all photographs closely, as they form part of the condition description.

The signature has not been independently authenticated. Sold as one original historical lot, exactly as pictured.