A Study in Southern Soldier Portrait Photography
This Southern soldier gazes directly at the camera, the almost perfect symmetry of his figure interrupted only by material items. In one hand he grasps the wood handle of a
Category: The Last Shot
Ancestors, Living History and Photo Sleuthing Inspires a Mission
By Michael Huston When I was 10 years old, my grandfather showed me a binder with genealogy information and a portrait photograph of a Civil War soldier. The stern look
Soldier and Printer
An admirer of Eli F. Chittenden summarized his professional life as a printer and editor this way: “He was in love with the business and never was contented when not
Soldier Staples
Inside every Civil War soldier’s haversack and backpack could be found a supply of hardtack and coffee. These ubiquitous dietary staples inspired poetry, songs —and a memorable book. Here’s a
A Bridge to Home
By Buck Zaidel A black leather carte de visite album with space to hold six images has three words in an unadorned font stamped into the cover flap: Soldiers Photograph
Memento Mori
The freshly starched cuffs and collar and pressed uniform coat with military buttons underscore the careful preparation of the remains of this Union officer. His shoulder straps have been removed,
Mississippi Cavalryman, Maynard Carbine
By Rick Brown While shopping during setup day at the 2020 Chickamauga Civil War Show in Dalton, Ga., I came across this image. The dealer did not know the identity
A Guide to His Southern Travels?
The thin volume held by this Union enlisted man may have helped him pinpoint the movements of his regiment during its Southern tour. The pocket-sized book, G. Woolworth Colton’s New
A Guide to His Southern Travels?
The thin volume held by this Union enlisted man may have helped him pinpoint the movements of his regiment during its Southern tour. The pocket-sized book, G. Woolworth Colton’s New
Greenback Pay Day
By Mike Fitzpatrick As a result of the war, the federal government suspended specie payments to maintain its bullion reserves. The move forced Congress in 1861 to authorize the U.S.