Civil War Contraband T-Shirt: Design Description
This t-shirt features a powerful design centered around the historical significance of the term "contraband" during the U.S. Civil War.
Artwork and Visual Elements
The central artwork depicts a silhouette of an African American man, representing the thousands of enslaved people who sought refuge with Union forces. The silhouette is deliberately positioned within a field of other representations. This evokes the precariousness and the struggle that the Contraband faced.
The design incorporates subtle imagery of the American flag in a faded effect to the left and right, signifying the complex relationship between the enslaved and the evolving meaning of freedom and national identity during the war.
Meaning and Symbolism
The design's primary focus is to honor the resilience and struggle for liberation of those labeled "contraband of war." The imagery evokes the historical journey from enslavement to the pursuit of freedom. The man represents the courage of those who sought refuge, and the potential hope and education they found. The overall visual design highlights the Union's evolving stance on slavery and the steps toward emancipation.
Unisex Heavy Cotton T-Shirt
A reliable classic cotton tee built for comfort, durability, and style. This unisex heavy cotton shirt is the perfect everyday staple — soft, structured, and designed to make printed designs look sharp and vibrant.
Product Highlights
- 100% heavy cotton fabric for structure and comfort
- Smooth surface ensures vivid, long-lasting prints
- No side seams for irritation-free wear
- Reinforced shoulders to maintain shape over time
- Classic unisex fit — works for all body types
Fit & Style Notes
Designed with versatility in mind, this tee works as your everyday go-to. Wear it true-to-size for a classic fit, or size up for a relaxed, modern drape. The mid-weight cotton balances softness and structure, making it equally great for layering or wearing on its own.
Style it with jeans, joggers, or skirts — its timeless silhouette makes it easy to dress up or down. Perfect for personal wear, printing, branding, or merch drops.
Size Guide
For best results, measure a t-shirt you already own laid flat and compare the chest width and length to the chart below.
| Size | Width (in) | Length (in) | Sleeve (in) |
|---|---|---|---|
| S | 18.00 | 28.00 | 15.10 |
| M | 20.00 | 29.00 | 16.50 |
| L | 22.00 | 30.00 | 18.00 |
| XL | 24.00 | 31.00 | 19.50 |
| 2XL | 26.00 | 32.00 | 21.00 |
| 3XL | 28.00 | 33.00 | 22.40 |
| 4XL | 30.00 | 34.00 | 23.70 |
| 5XL | 32.00 | 35.00 | 25.00 |
Tip: Compare these measurements with your favorite tee for the best fit.
Care Instructions
- Machine wash cold (max 30°C / 90°F)
- Use non-chlorine bleach only when necessary
- Do not iron directly on printed designs
- Do not dry clean
- Tumble dry on low heat
